What is the earliest university in Germany?
Heidelberg University was established as early as 1386, and it is the oldest university in Germany. From16th century to17th century, it became the base of religious reform and the cultural center of Germany, and trained many young students from various countries. Until today, education is still the most important function of Heidelberg. This school reached its golden age from the second half of16th century to the beginning of17th century. At that time, students from all over Europe gathered here to receive the guidance of the best professors in the world, just like the cultural center of Protestantism after the Reformation. During the Thirty Years' War (16 18 ~ 1648), Heidelberg was violently attacked by supporters of the old religion, and the university suffered great damage. The most precious library collections were also plundered to Rome. The destruction of the war made the University of Heidelberg stop operating in the decades from17th century to18th century. It was not until 1803 that the university resumed operation with the strong support of Charles Frederick, Grand Duke of Baden. At this time, the University of Heidelberg has also changed from the philosophical research focusing on religion and thought to the main research center of science and medicine. With the evolution of the times, the tentacles of universities have been expanding, and the departments of mathematics, natural science and humanities have been established one after another, and comprehensive universities have gradually matured. During World War II, the university was temporarily closed until August 1945. At present, the school has more than 800 courses, with about1.2000 students, accounting for one tenth of the city's population. In addition to the excellent teaching environment and free academic atmosphere, the romantic tradition here is also a very important factor for Heidelberg University to attract many students. The first thing many people want to see when they go to Heidelberg is "University", but they can't find a university campus. In fact, like most ancient universities in Europe, Heidelberg University has no clear campus. The whole city is the seat of universities, and various departments and colleges are scattered all over the city. It is easy to miss the building where a department is located unless someone gives directions or consults the information.