Alte Anatomie (Old Anatomy Building), Heidelberg

In the late 1840s, as natural sciences began to flourish in Heidelberg and across Germany, the state commissioned the construction of an Anatomical Institute. The chosen site was the garden of the city's former Dominican monastery, with the project led by Heinrich Hübsch. The resulting structure was a modest, two-story building distinguished by its relatively large windows set within robust rectangular frames, a design now recognized as Romantic Classicism. Its architectural uniqueness is highlighted by a continuous cornice that marks the floor division, and vertical divisions formed by band-like pilasters made of various layered bricks.

Skilled restorers have carefully maintained the building, which is now plastered in a honey-colored ochre tone. It features a prominently overhanging, gently sloped roof that exposes its timber framework, culminating in a pointed gable above the central projection—evoking the noble dignity of a country estate from that era.

For nearly 125 years, the Anatomy department thrived here, supporting generations of physicians in their training and contributing to the advancements of science. In May 1974, the department relocated to new facilities in the Neuenheimer Feld, along with other medical disciplines. Subsequently, the Psychological Institute moved into the vacated spaces, continuing the legacy of scientific and academic pursuit.