Abstract: The invention relates to a loading device (12) for a reactor formed by a plurality of vertically extending tubes (50). Said device is formed by loading elements (10) each of which comprises a circular plate (30) having two noses (16) formed thereon being positioned diametrically opposed to each other, and an opening (24) and a filling tube (26) the end side of which is formed around said opening (24) of said plate (30). The outer contours of said individual plates (30) are adapted to the reactor in such a manner that in case of a plurality of loading elements (10) being arranged side by side a parquet-like closed surface is formable when said filling tubes (26) extend through filling openings (25) into said tubes (50) of the reactor.