Studentenkarzer

One of the oldest student jails in Germany

The Studentenkarzer — the university's old student lock-up — is housed in the Auditorium building near the Wilhelmsplatz. From 1812 to 1933 the university used these small rooms to discipline misbehaving students, and the inmates left their mark in the form of painted graffiti: regimental crests, fraternity colours, satirical drawings, and signatures of generations of doctors and lawyers-to-be.

Access is by guided tour from the university's main building, usually weekly in summer. Worth timing a visit around.

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A story
Until the early 20th century, German universities had their own jurisdiction over students. Misbehaviour — duels, public drunkenness, insulting a professor — landed the offender in the Karzer for a few days. Inmates kept up with classes, were brought beer, and used the time to cover the walls with elaborate painted heraldic crests and self-portraits, many of which survive on the walls today.

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