From 1778 until 1914, students were imprisoned in the Students' Prison for so-called "Kavaliersdelikte" - minor transgressions that were kind of fashionable among otherwise honorable gentlemen enrolled at the Heidelberg University, most of them being members of student fraternities.

Common offenses were disturbing the peace, especially after excessive drinking at night, insulting official authorities, or playing jokes at them, as well as participating in duels. During these years, the University administration was embodied with an autonomous jurisdiction and had the legal right to detain students. Depending on the seriousness of the offense, imprisonment would last from three days to four weeks. One was allowed, however, to attend lectures. After classes, the young delinquents had to return to jail. Biding their time, many of the young prisoners "decorated" the walls with graffiti and paintings. Their "artwork" is still preserved and to be seen at the Students' Prison.

Opening hours:
April - September: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
October: Tuesday to Friday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., closed on Mondays.
November - March: Tuesday to Saturday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., closed on Sundays and Mondays.
Info: www.unishop-hd.de

Admission: € 2.50/2.00 (free with HeidelbergCard)

Address:
Augustinergasse 2
Alte Universität
Phone: +49 (0)6221 / 54 35 54
Fax: +49 (0)6221 / 54 26 18