Universität Kassel, Heinrich-Plett-Straße

Stepping back in time, imagine Kassel in 1971. A new university was emerging, breathing life into former industrial spaces. The Universität Kassel, Heinrich-Plett-Strasse campus, stands as a testament to this transformation. Originally part of the Aufbau und Verfügungszentrum (AVZ), this location was meant to be temporary. Yet, it has thrived for decades, housing primarily the Department of Mathematics and Natural Sciences. Universität Kassel, Heinrich-Plett-Strasse, wasn’t always destined for academia. The land once belonged to the Henschel Company, known for its transportation equipment manufacturing. The shift from industrial production to intellectual pursuit marks a significant chapter in Kassel’s history. The Universität Kassel as a whole has a rich history. It started as Gesamthochschule Kassel (GhK) in 1971, embracing an integrated approach to education. This meant merging various pre-existing institutions like the Academy of Fine Arts and the College of Engineering under one umbrella. This unique “Kassel Model” emphasized practical experience and staged degrees. The Universität Kassel, Heinrich-Plett-Strasse, along with other campuses, contributes to this innovative approach. The university’s presence has undoubtedly revitalized the surrounding area. The Heinrich-Plett-Strasse campus is planned to be moved to the Holländischer Platz campus as part of the HEUREKA program. This move will consolidate university resources. It will also free up the current space for other developments, further transforming the landscape of Kassel. But the legacy of Universität Kassel, Heinrich-Plett-Strasse, will remain a reminder of the university’s innovative beginnings and its deep connection to the city’s industrial past.