Gestapelte Hörsäle greet you. This is the Hörsaalgebäude I a prominent landmark of the Goethe University’s Bockenheim campus. Designed by Ferdinand Kramer its unique architecture reflects the era’s modernist ideals.
Kramer who headed the university’s building department from 1952 into the 1960s envisioned this building as more than just lecture halls. He designed the Hörsaalgebäude I with interlocking profiles creating a visible skeletal structure of concrete and steel. This bold design showcases Kramer’s innovative approach to university architecture.
The Hörsaalgebäude I wasn’t just for lectures. For over 65 years it hosted the AStA’s annual Quartier Latin carnival. Thousands of students flocked here for this two-day extravaganza. The building’s floors and lecture halls transformed reflecting the event’s theme. Despite a ticket price of 18 Euros this event was usually sold out becoming a significant carnival celebration for Frankfurt. Sadly the AStA discontinued it in 2018 citing concerns about safety and its evolution into a massive event.
Notice the staircase in the foreground. It’s a key feature of Kramer’s design. The Hörsaalgebäude I is more than just a collection of lecture halls. It’s a testament to innovative design and a vibrant history. It played host to countless lectures. More importantly it played host to unforgettable student celebrations.
Today after a shift in function the Hörsaalgebäude hosts university events for the third stage of life. Its legacy lives on. It continues to be a vital space. The Hörsaalgebäude stands as a reminder of Frankfurt’s rich academic past and its ever-evolving present. The building is a unique blend of function and innovative design. The building reflects the spirit of a bygone era. It also serves as a beacon for the future.