Heidelberg Photo Gallery - University Unimuseum and Great Hall

Heidelberg is an easy day trip from Frankfurt and well worth it for its beautiful Baroque architecture. Its university is the oldest in Germany, founded in 1386, and is still dominant today. After visiting the Studentenkarzer, don't forget to also pop into the Unimuseum, which is included in your combination ticket and just next door. I need to thank a staff on site who reminded me to head upstairs to see the Great Hall, the university's beautiful auditorium. Another staff were on hand inside to give a detailed overview of the hall's design and function. What we see today dates from the 1880s to celebrate the university's 500th anniversary. It is mainly used for ceremonies, concerts, and lectures today. The "Old University" building itself is older, built between 1712-1728. The university spans a number of blocks around here and there are a number of beautiful buildings on site. Over 31,000 students study here, employing almost 9000 staff. While this part of the university is historic, there is a larger more modern campus across the river as well. While much of medieval Heidelberg was destroyed by the French in the late 17th century, Hexenturm has survived, being once part of the 13th century fortifications.