Audimax Kiste

Is this imposing brick structure whispering tales of academic rigor? This is the Audimax Kiste in Greifswald. It’s not a crate, despite its nickname. It’s a grand lecture hall building, a testament to the burgeoning student population of the late 19th century. The Audimax Kiste, part of the University of Greifswald, was built between 1884 and 1886. Designed by university architect Paul Emil Hofmann, it stands as a proud example of the era’s architectural style. The university’s student body had increased fivefold between 1850 and 1886. This surge in student numbers necessitated expansion, leading to the creation of the Audimax Kiste. It provided a much-needed space for 400 students, a substantial number at the time, making it the largest lecture hall in Greifswald. The building itself is an architectural gem. Note the impressive cast-iron columns and pilasters supporting the vaulted ceilings on the ground floor and in the vestibule. A careful restoration in 2008, funded by the Alfried Krupp von Bohlen und Halbach Stiftung, brought the original color scheme back to life. Step inside and imagine the generations of students who filled these halls. Picture the professors lecturing, the rustling of notes, and the quiet murmur of discussions. Upstairs, three lecture halls still boast their original seating. The woodwork has been painstakingly restored. One lecture hall has been renovated based on historical color findings, offering a glimpse into the vibrant past of the Audimax Kiste. This building is more than just bricks and mortar. It represents the growth and evolution of the University of Greifswald, a silent witness to countless lectures, debates, and academic pursuits.