Home to the oldest university in Germany, Heidelberg was hit hard during 17th-century wars and rebuilt in the 18th century with baroque buildings. For a pleasant walk, stroll through the historic city center's Gothic streets. Be sure to take in Heidelberg Castle, the symbolic heart of the city; Alte Brucke, a beautiful 18th-century bridge; and the Student Jail. Built as long ago as the 16th century, it was used to keep mischievous students off the streets for three days to a month at a time.
The Holy Spirit Church (German: Heiliggeistkirche ) is the most famous church in Heidelberg, Germany . It is located in the heart of Heidelberg ’s Old Town, not far from Heidelberg Castle . The spire of the church dominates the city ’s skyline. The construction of the church lasted 150 years. Choir seats were completed in 1411, and the bell tower was completed in 1544. In the 14th century, the Holy Spirit Church replaced St. Peter's Church, which became the university church of Heidelberg University . Historically, the church has been used by Catholics and Protestants in turns or simultaneously. Beginning in 1706, partitions were installed in the hall so that they could hold their own services without interference. In 1936, the separation was demolished, and the church belonged entirely to the Protestant Baden Evangelical Church.
