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Historic site · Heidelberg, Baden-Württemberg
Studentenkarzer
The old prison of the Universität de Heidelberg, where students served sentences for rowdiness, duels or disrespect. The five cells, from 1823, have walls and ceilings covered with drawings, names and verses by the inmates.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Studentenkarzer
Until the early 20th century, the Universidade de Heidelberg had its own justice over students. Punishments in the university prison appear in records as early as 1387. The five cells you can visit today were installed in 1823 in a building on Augustinergasse, behind the Alte Universität.
Students were sent to the Karzer for disturbing the peace at night, fighting, taking part in duels or disrespecting the police. The sentence could last days, and inmates were often allowed out to attend lectures.
What stands out are the walls and ceilings, covered with silhouettes, coats of arms of student associations, names, dates and verses painted by the prisoners themselves. Over time, spending a spell there became almost a point of pride among students.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
20 to 30 minutes.
Best time
In the mornings on weekdays. The space is small and fills up with groups. In winter it often closes on Sundays; hours change between winter and summer: check before you go.
How to get there
It’s on Augustinergasse, behind the Alte Universität, about a 5-minute walk from Marktplatz and about 10 minutes from Bismarckplatz.
Tip
Bags and coats must be left in lockers before the visit. The university recommends booking by phone in advance during busy periods: check before you go.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Studentenkarzer
Why were students imprisoned?
For disturbing the peace at night, fighting, taking part in duels, or disrespecting the police. The university had its own jurisdiction over students until the early 20th century.
Are the drawings on the walls original?
Yes. Silhouettes, coats of arms, names and verses were made by the students themselves while imprisoned in the cells, throughout the 19th century and the early 20th century.
Is a reservation necessary?
For individual visitors it is not mandatory, but the university recommends booking by phone during busy periods. Groups need to schedule in advance.