Museum
Student Prison (Studentenkarzer)
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The Student Prison, or Studentenkarzer, is a unique museum located in the old university building in Heidelberg's old town. From the 16th century until 1914, this facility was used to detain students who broke university rules, such as dueling, disturbing the peace, or other misdemeanors. The prison consists of several cells, each covered in elaborate graffiti and drawings left by former inmates. Visitors can see the cramped conditions, with wooden beds and iron bars, and read the humorous and artistic inscriptions that students created to pass the time. The walls are covered with names, dates, and caricatures, offering a vivid glimpse into student life in centuries past. This site is a popular attraction for those interested in university history and quirky historical anecdotes.
Don't miss
- See original graffiti and drawings left by imprisoned students
- Explore the cramped cells and learn about student punishments
- View the 'honor cells' for students who were imprisoned for dueling
- Read the humorous inscriptions and poems on the walls
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Student Prison (Studentenkarzer)
You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inHeidelberg's Altstadt: A Self-Guided Audio Tour4★ · 26 travelers~1 hourFrom$5 per personSee dates →
Most bookedHeidelberg Castle and Old Town Tour from Frankfurt4.2★ · 610 travelers~6 hoursFree cancellationFrom$150 per personSee dates →
Private & flexibleExclusive Private Tour of Heidelberg.5★ · 31 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$495 per personSee dates →More attractions in Heidelberg