From the 11th century onward the archbishops of Trier used the Basilica, of which only the outer walls were standing, as a stronghold.

In the late 16th century, archbishop Johann von Schönenberg planned building a residence in the style of the German Renaissance for which parts of the Medieval fortress, as well as many houses, were demolished.

In the same period work had started on the upper palace wings (Hochschloss) but this project was halted as a result of the Thirty Years' War.

In the original plans, the south wing would be demolished too but this was prevented as the Rococo staircase in the interior was considered monumental even then.

Classical music concerts are performed in the Grand Chamber of the rococo south wing and the courtyard.

[3] Part of the north wing is used by the Evangelical-Lutheran congregation of Trier which holds its services in the adjacent Basilica.

[2] The Hochschloss consists of three wings built in a mix of architectural styles: Renaissance, Baroque and Rococo.

The famous Rococo staircase is the main reason why the south wing was not demolished in its entirety.

Despite severe war damage, the precious stair is still in situ and was restored after WW II.