Exploring the rich history and architectural wonders of the University of Leipzig is made easy with its captivating Guided Campus Walking Tour. This 1.5-hour excursion takes visitors through the campus, showcasing the impressive New Augusteum and Paulinum buildings while delving into the institution’s notable alumni and over 600 years of academic excellence. With an accessible route and a knowledgeable guide, this tour promises an enriching experience for anyone interested in the university’s storied past and modern presence. But what lies beneath the surface of these iconic structures, and how do they reflect the university’s evolving identity?
Key Points
- The 1.5-hour guided walking tour explores the New Augusteum and Paulinum buildings, providing interior access when events are not occurring.
- The tour covers the history of the Paulinerkirche, the eliminated university church, and insights into the locations where notable alumni studied.
- The tour is wheelchair accessible, and reservations can be made with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
- The University of Leipzig has over 600 years of teaching and research history, with a current enrollment of 30,000 students.
- The tour has an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, with positive feedback highlighting the insightful historical context and the guided campus exploration experience.
Tour Overview
A guided campus walking tour of the University of Leipzig is offered, lasting approximately 1.5 hours.
The tour costs from $13.08 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior. Guests can reserve their spot now and pay later.
A guided campus walking tour of the University of Leipzig costs from $13.08 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
The tour explores the New Augusteum and Paulinum buildings, including interior access when possible. Participants will learn about the planning concepts behind the new campus structures and discover the history of the Paulinerkirche, the university church that has been eliminated.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, with a guide provided at the meeting point in the New Augusteum.
Into exploring Leipzig on foot? Check out these other walking experiences we've looked at
Highlights and Learning Opportunities
The guided tour explores the New Augusteum and Paulinum buildings, providing interior access when events aren’t occurring. Visitors learn about the planning concepts behind these new campus structures. They also discover the history of the Paulinerkirche, the university church that was once an integral part of the campus but has since been eliminated. Throughout the tour, participants see where notable alumni, including Goethe and Friedrich Nietzsche, spent their time studying.
| Highlights | Learning Opportunities |
| — | — |
| – New Augusteum and Paulinum buildings | – Campus planning concepts |
| – Interior tours when events aren’t occurring | – History of Paulinerkirche |
| – Locations of notable alumni | – Insights into university’s past and present |
Historical Context
Founded on December 2, 1409, by Frederick I and William II, the University of Leipzig has engaged in teaching and research for over 600 years.
Today, the university boasts a current enrollment of 30,000 students. Among its notable alumni are renowned figures like Leibniz, Goethe, Nietzsche, Schumann, Wagner, Merkel, and nine Nobel laureates.
With its rich history and distinguished alumni, the University of Leipzig has cemented its place as a center of academic excellence, continuously contributing to the advancement of knowledge and the development of influential thinkers and leaders.
Accessibility and Logistics
Meeting point for the guided campus walking tour is the information counter on the ground floor of the New Augusteum building. A tour guide is provided to lead the group.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing all visitors to explore the campus. Participants don’t need to pay upfront – they can reserve their spot now and pay later.
Plus, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, giving flexibility to change plans. The logistics are straightforward, ensuring a seamless experience for those interested in discovering the historic University of Leipzig campus.
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Feedback
How have past participants rated the University of Leipzig campus tour? Based on 17 reviews, the tour earns an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars.
Participants particularly praise the tour guide, giving them a 5 out of 5 rating. The tour also delivers excellent value for money, scoring 4.7 out of 5.
Key highlights from positive feedback include:
-
Insightful historical context provided
-
Enjoyment of exploring the campus
-
Appreciation for the guided experience
Enjoying having a local guide? These other guided experiences in Leipzig might interest you
- Leipzig Individually: Private Old Town Tour With Certified Guide
- Leipzigs Communist Past: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
- Leipzig Individually: Private Old Town Tour With Certified Guide
- Leipzigs Communist Past: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
- Private Guided Tour of the Historic South Cemetery in Leipzig
- First Electrical Carriage in Town – Guided City Tours – Leipzig
Planning Concepts Behind New Campus Buildings
As part of the campus tour, visitors can learn about the planning concepts behind the University of Leipzig’s new buildings.
The modern Augusteum and Paulinum structures were designed to create a cohesive, welcoming campus environment. The buildings’ layouts optimize foot traffic and functionality, with features like open courtyards and strategic placement of student services.
Thoughtful design choices, such as use of natural light and sustainable materials, enhance the buildings’ aesthetics and environmental impact.
Paulinerkirche: The Eliminated University Church
The Paulinerkirche, the iconic university church, has a poignant history intertwined with the University of Leipzig.
Once a vital part of campus life, this historic structure was tragically demolished in 1968 by the East German government.
Reasons for its elimination include:
-
Ideological Tensions: The church was seen as a symbol of religion, which conflicted with the socialist ideology of the time.
-
Campus Redevelopment: Plans for a new university library necessitated the church’s removal.
-
Preservation Challenges: Efforts to save the Paulinerkirche were ultimately unsuccessful.
-
Lasting Impact: Its loss is still felt by the university community today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Purchase Tickets on the Day of the Tour?
Yes, you can purchase tickets on the day of the tour. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and you can reserve your spot without any upfront payment.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?
Yes, the tour offers discounts for students and seniors. Students can purchase tickets for $10.47 per person, while seniors can get discounted tickets for $11.77 per person. These reduced rates are available at the time of booking.
How Long Does It Take to Walk the Entire Campus?
The guided campus walking tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, covering the main highlights. However, walking the entire University of Leipzig campus on one’s own could take several hours, depending on the pace and areas explored.
Are There Any Cafes or Restaurants on the Campus Tour Route?
The tour doesn’t include stops at any cafes or restaurants along the route. However, there are several dining options available on the campus that visitors can explore on their own before or after the guided tour.
Can I Take Photos During the Tour?
Yes, photography is generally allowed during the tour. The guide will inform participants if there are any restrictions or areas where photographs cannot be taken. Visitors are encouraged to capture the highlights of the tour.
The Sum Up
The University of Leipzig’s Guided Campus Walking Tour offers an enriching exploration of the institution’s storied history and architectural wonders. With an accessible and informative experience, this tour promises to captivate visitors, providing a unique opportunity to take in the university’s academic legacy. Highly rated by participants, this tour is an excellent way to discover the University of Leipzig’s enduring significance.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Walking Tours in Leipzig
- Gruseltour Leipzig 90-minute walking tour about the Dark Secrets of Leipzig
- Best of Leipzig: Private Walking Tour with a Local
- Leipzig: Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tour & City Walk
- Leipzig: Queer City Private Guided Walking Tour
- Leipzig : Must-See Attractions Walking Tour With a Guide
- Leipzig : Private Walking Tour With a Guide (Private Tour)
More Tours in Leipzig
- Gruseltour Leipzig 90-minute walking tour about the Dark Secrets of Leipzig
- Leipzig City Centre: Scavenger Hunt Self-Guided Tour
- Tour on Lake Cospuden
- Leipzig: Scavenger Hunt Self-Guided Tour for Children
- Best of Leipzig: Private Walking Tour with a Local
- Leipzig: Segway City Tour – Discover Sights, Parks & History
More Tour Reviews in Leipzig
Still browsing? Here are more Leipzig experiences we've covered recently
- The classic – experience Leipzig’s city centre
- Gruseltour Leipzig 90-minute walking tour about the Dark Secrets of Leipzig
- Leipzig City Centre: Scavenger Hunt Self-Guided Tour
- Tour on Lake Cospuden
- Number by number to Leipzig legend: the bingo evening with heart & home!
- Harz Mountains Day Trip
- From Leipzig: Vogtland Music Day Trip
- Leipzig: Belantis Theme Park Admission Ticket
- Leipzig: Scavenger Hunt Self-Guided Tour for Children
- Best of Leipzig: Private Walking Tour with a Local
- Leipzig: Segway City Tour – Discover Sights, Parks & History
- Leipzig: Sunset paddling tour on Lake Cospuden