Mainz is the capital and at the same time largest city in the state of Rhineland-Palatinate. It is the home of Johannes Gutenberg University of Mainz, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Mainz as well as several television and radio broadcasting companies. Mainz is understood to be one of the strongholds of Rhenish Carnival.

Many testimonials to historic building culture which shape the cityscape are also preserved in Mainz today: Mainz Cathedral, Electoral Palace, Citadel, Iron Tower and Wood Tower...