Friedrich-Wilhelm-Gymnasium

Established in 1561, the Friedrich-Wilhelm-Gymnasium has witnessed centuries of Trier’s history. Originally named Collegium Trinitas, this Jesuit school began its life near the iconic Trierer Jesuitenkirche. The Friedrich-Wilhelm-Gymnasium is one of Germany’s oldest schools. It has educated generations of students, including notable figures like Karl Marx, Oswald von Nell-Breuning, and Cardinal Joseph Höffner. The Jesuits guided the school until 1773. Then Clemens Wenzeslaus von Sachsen, Trier’s last archbishop, took over. The French Revolution brought change, transforming the school into a French École centrale, then a Collège. After Napoleon’s defeat, the Friedrich-Wilhelm-Gymnasium became a Prussian institution. The school finally received its royal title in 1858. Its present name honors King Friedrich Wilhelm III. World War II brought devastation, leaving the original building in ruins. Classes relocated to the damaged St. Maximin Abbey from 1946 to 1961. Instead of returning to the old site, which could not be expanded, the Friedrich-Wilhelm-Gymnasium moved to its current location. The former building was sold to the diocese and rebuilt for the seminary. The Friedrich-Wilhelm-Gymnasium has always been more than just a school. It’s a vineyard. A wine estate. Endowed with vineyards shortly after its founding, the school relied on wine production for funding throughout its history. Even the 1961 building was financed by these vineyards. Although the vineyards were sold in 2004, wines are still produced and sold under the name “Weingut Friedrich-Wilhelm-Gymnasium”. These wines, primarily Rieslings, represent the school’s enduring connection to the Moselle region. The school offers a blend of tradition and modernity, with classical and modern language programs. Its “Latin Plus” class, introduced in 2005, allows students to learn English and Latin simultaneously. French, Italian, Ancient Greek are also offered, along with modern facilities and exchange programs. The Friedrich-Wilhelm-Gymnasium continues its tradition of academic excellence and cultural exchange, preparing students for the future while honoring its rich past.