Alte Universitaet, Heidelberg

Founded in 1386, Alte Universitaet is Germany's oldest university, ranked among Europe's top universities and the birthplace of modern psychology, sociology, and psychiatry, as well as the alma mater of 11 heads of state. Here you'll find the old lecture halls decorated with frescoes and sculptures, a museum detailing the university's history, and the library--one of Europe's most important since medieval times. The university is also home to the Student Prison, its most curious building. From the 18th century up until 1914, students could be jailed here for offenses like disturbing the peace--though they'd still be let out to go to class through a special door. The centuries' worth of graffiti and paintings they left behind are still visible. A guided tour of the university available, showing you all the most historic sights. Put Alte Universitaet and other Heidelberg attractions into our Heidelberg trip itinerary planning site, and watch your holiday take shape.