Hölderlin-Gymnasium

Did the imposing facade of the Hölderlin-Gymnasium give you a hint of its groundbreaking history? This isn’t just any school. It was Württemberg’s first girls’ gymnasium. Established on April 17, 1899, the Hölderlin-Gymnasium was a beacon of progressive education. It was founded by Countess Üxküll-Gyllenband and Johanna Dorothea Bethe. They envisioned a place where girls could access a humanistic education, ultimately paving the way to university. Initially a private institution for daughters of the educated class, the Hölderlin-Gymnasium’s mission was clear. It sought to break barriers and empower young women. In its early years, the school shared space with the Women’s Continuing Education Institute on Kronenstrasse. However, it soon moved to Alleenstrasse 29 in April 1900. By the spring of 1901, Hölderlin-Gymnasium had gained its independence. The first cohort of students took their Abitur exams in 1903, although they had to do so externally at the Cannstatter Gymnasium. These pioneering graduates included some of the first women enrolled at the University of Tübingen. These women were Martha Vollmöller, Gertrud Stockmeyer, and Anna Stettenheimer. In 1909, the school celebrated its 10th anniversary. It received the name Königin-Charlotte-Gymnasium. Then came the move to its current location on Hölderlinstrasse 28 in 1912, nestled in the Stuttgart-Nord district. During the Third Reich, the school’s humanistic tradition was disrupted. Latin and Greek were banned. The name was changed to Hölderlin-Oberschule. After the war, Hölderlin-Gymnasium revived its language-focused curriculum. It embraced co-education in 1970, welcoming boys into the 5th grade. In 1996, the school added an art profile, further enriching its offerings. Even today, Hölderlin-Gymnasium offers students a choice between languages and art. This reflects its continuing commitment to a well-rounded education. The legacy of this institution is truly impressive. From its humble beginnings as a private school, the Hölderlin-Gymnasium has evolved into a renowned institution. It continues to shape young minds and empower future generations.