Romain-Rolland-Gymnasium

Nestled along the Weintraubenstraße, the Romain-Rolland-Gymnasium, or “RoRo” as it’s affectionately known, has witnessed Dresden’s tumultuous history unfold. This grand building, designed by city architect Hans Erlwein, opened its doors in April 1915 as the Municipal Study Institute for Girls. Originally a three-story structure with a planetarium, it even housed a fourth-floor addition in 1927. The Romain-Rolland-Gymnasium offered an exceptional education for girls, focusing on languages, sciences, and humanities, a rarity in Imperial Germany. The school’s magnificent aula, a true masterpiece of design, remains a testament to Erlwein’s vision. The Romain-Rolland-Gymnasium weathered significant changes throughout the 20th century. It transitioned from a girls’ school to a co-educational institution after World War II. It even endured a period of strict separation between boys and girls within its walls, despite a few clandestine romances blossoming. The school’s name changed several times, reflecting the shifting political landscape of Germany. In 1966, it was renamed in honor of French writer and pacifist Romain Rolland. By the 1970s, the Romain-Rolland-Gymnasium had cemented its reputation for language education. The brightest students even served as translators during international events. The school’s commitment to language education continues to this day with its bilingual German-French program. Students can even earn the AbiBac, a dual diploma recognized in both Germany and France. Despite facing near closure in 1997, the RoRo community rallied, demonstrating their unwavering dedication to preserving this Dresden landmark. Between 2009 and 2011, the Romain-Rolland-Gymnasium underwent extensive renovations. Modern additions complemented Erlwein’s original design. A new sports hall was constructed. The old gymnasium was transformed into a library. Today, the Romain-Rolland-Gymnasium continues to thrive, offering a rich blend of tradition and modernity. It stands as a symbol of resilience and a testament to the power of education in shaping future generations.