Located in the heart of the Rhine wine region, the province of Rhineland-Palatinate, Mainz has played many historic roles. Due to its favorable location on the mouth of the Main River and being close to the mouth of the Nahe River, Mainz gained economic and political strength. Under Roman rule, it served a key part of the Roman Empire's northern defenses and during the Middle Ages, it served as a major trade center. Later, Mainz became home to printing pioneer Johannes Guttenberg. Learn more about the invention of the printing press with a visit to the World Museum of Printing or enjoy the Roman-Germanic Museum, the Natural History Museum and the Museum of Historical River Navigation. Visit beautiful St. Stephen's Cathedral featuring Chagall's world-famous stained-glass windows or enjoy a local wine in a cozy tavern.