Student graffiti and other stories
10/13/2026The new museum dedicated to the history of the University of Würzburg is set to open in 2027. On 23 October 2026, anyone interested will be able to take a look around the premises and put their knowledge of the university to the test.
What is almost unimaginable today used to be a reality at many universities: the ‘Karzer’ – the university’s own ‘prison’ for students. Anyone who breached the academic regulations had to serve their punishment here. From today’s perspective, the reasons often seem astonishing: in the Würzburg Karzer, for example, students ended up there for throwing snowballs, or for whispering answers to fellow students during the exam.
The walls of these unusual rooms still tell their very own stories, documented in pictures, to this day. They were covered with drawings, slogans and messages from former inmates – a unique record of student life in centuries past.
Immersing yourself in the atmosphere of a ‘Karzer’
Just in time for its 625th anniversary, the University plans to open the new Museum of University History (MUG) on 14 February 2027 in the historic vaults of the Old University. Its motto is: ‘Knowledge. Change. Truths.” Visitors can look forward to exhibits that illustrate how scholarship has shaped – and continues to shape – Würzburg and the world.
This also includes the opportunity to immerse oneself in the atmosphere of a ‘Karzer’. A particular highlight: in the walk-through ‘Karzer’ installation, anyone can leave their own ‘wall graffiti’ and thus become part of a tradition.
But the museum will be far more than just a glimpse into student life of days gone by. The University of Würzburg, which received its charter as early as 1402 – a privilege reaffirmed in 1582 – will in future present the diverse stories of an institution with a history spanning over 600 years.
Visitors will learn about famous figures, extraordinary events and endearing curiosities. Museum visitors will be able to find out what a quagga is, who is known for their ‘buffalo-like coarseness’ and why a research expedition was set off from a caravan.
A museum in a 444-year-old building
“Very few universities in Germany have created a space where the public can experience their own history. And to do so in a building that is 444 years old and itself a historical artefact!” says Dr Marcus Holtz, Head of the University Archives, with delight.
Preparations for the museum are already being supported by impressive backing from the university community and foundations: 120,000 euros have been raised so far. However, a further 70,000 euros are still needed to ensure the project is realised in full, sustainably and inclusively.
Project Day with a knowledge quiz
At this Open Day for the museum of university history currently under development, anyone interested can already take a look at the future exhibition space – the university’s wine cellar – whilst enjoying a glass of Federweißer or grape juice. You are warmly invited to find out more about the project and the fundraising campaign in person and to put your knowledge to the test in a quiz.
The Open Project Day will take place on Friday, 23 October 2026, from 5 pm to 8 pm. The quiz starts at 5.45 pm and is repeated every 45 minutes. The entrance to the museum rooms is in the Old University, Domerschulstraße 16, through the archway leading to the inner courtyard.
