Established on December 3 1881 Corps Marchia Greifswald began as the Akademisch-Medizinischer Verein a student association. Initially part of the Goslarer Verband it later transitioned into a full-fledged Corps in 1923. This marked a significant change embracing the traditions of color wearing and the Mensur the student fencing duel.
The Corps Marchia’s history is deeply intertwined with the University of Greifswald. It unites students and alumni fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared identity. Its unique pink-white-pink colors with silver trim and black cap are instantly recognizable symbols of this Greifswald tradition. The coat of arms boasts Pomerania’s colors the Greif of Greifswald and the founding date. The motto Vita brevis ars longa a testament to the brevity of life and the enduring pursuit of knowledge perfectly encapsulates the spirit of this academic society.
Marchia’s journey wasn’t without its challenges. The rise of Nazism brought significant hardship. In 1935 faced with the increasing pressure of forced membership in Nazi organizations the active Corps suspended operations preserving its traditions secretly. Tragically their historical artifacts and archives were destroyed during the bombing of Dresden in 1945.
Following World War II the Altherrenverband the alumni association remained active unofficially. It persevered until officially resuming in 1953. This was short-lived as student organizations were banned in East Germany. Marchia’s legacy survived. Its alumni association merged with other groups to maintain its history and traditions.
After German reunification in 1992 Corps Marchia Greifswald was resurrected. This remarkable revival involved the Corps Irminsul and about thirty members of its alumni association. It was among the first student organizations restored in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. The support of the University’s rector and the state’s first prime minister aided this successful rebirth. They even purchased their present Corpshaus in 1994 a testament to their enduring spirit. The Corps Marchia Greifswald today is a vibrant part of the University of Greifswald continuing its legacy of scholarship fellowship and tradition. It is one of the first Weinheimer Corps in the new states. They even acquired their current building in 1994.