Once a Volksschule now a place of higher learning. Pirckheimer-Gymnasium stands before us. It is more than just bricks and mortar. This school embodies Nuremberg’s educational spirit.
The Pirckheimer-Gymnasium wasn’t always known by that name. In 1968, the city decided to build a new Gymnasium in the south of Nuremberg. This was due to increasing settlement density. The goal was to relieve pressure on existing schools. Dürer-Gymnasium, Hans-Sachs-Gymnasium, Martin-Behaim-Gymnasium and Sigena-Gymnasium.
Initially known as Gymnasium Nuremberg Gibitzenhofstraße the name did not resonate. Teachers, students and parents wanted something more meaningful. They sought a name that reflected Nuremberg’s heritage. They wanted a connection to the city’s southern development.
After considering Georg Philipp Harsdörffer and Regiomontanus, they chose Willibald Pirckheimer. Caritas Pirckheimer who was also considered may have influenced the decision for Willibald Pirckheimer. The school’s request to be named Pirckheimer-Gymnasium Nuremberg was approved in 1970.
But what about this building itself? The Gibitzenhofschulhaus. It was completed in 1905. It first served as a primary school after expansions to the original in 1882. During World War I, it briefly became a military mass lodging. The building sustained light damage in 1944. It was nearly completely destroyed in 1945. Classes were moved to the Herschelschule until repairs were completed in 1957.
To fully establish the new Gymnasium, more space was needed. In 1968, an application was submitted to expand the gymnasium. This included the addition of north and south wings. Approval was granted in 1970. Construction finished in 1973.
Over the years, Pirckheimer-Gymnasium has seen many leaders. Otto Lorenz served as headmaster from 1968 to 1980. Gerhard Gunst followed from 1980 to 1999. Joachim Leisgang led from 1999 to 2005. Wilfried Büttner took over from 2005 to 2015. Since 2015, Benedikt Mehl has been at the helm.
Many notable individuals have passed through these halls. Football player Michael Fuchs. Artistic director Julia Kempken. Classical philologist Ulrich Schmitzer. Cabaret artist Oliver Tissot. Poker player Fabian Quoss.
Pirckheimer-Gymnasium continues to evolve. It adapts to the changing needs of its students and the community. From its humble beginnings as a Volksschule to its current status as a Gymnasium. It remains a vital part of Nuremberg’s educational landscape. A place where history, learning and community converge.