Die Paulinerkirche von der Inauguration bis zum 275-jährigen Jubiläum der Georg-August-Universität Göttingen

Abstract

In 1737, the Pauliner Church, founded originally in 1294 as part of a Dominican monastery, hosted the ceremonial opening of the University of Göttingen. Ever since that time, it has been closely connected with the history of the university and its library. Having served as the central venue for university services and functions throughout the 18th century, its upper storey was transformed into a library hall in 1812. Soon, the so-called Historical Hall went on to be used for exhibitions and functions as well, many of which related to the university’s subsequent anniversaries. In 1944, the Pauliner Church was largely destroyed in an air raid. After the Second World War, it was rebuilt, and its upper storey was used mainly as a lecture hall and catalogue room. Following a comprehensive refurbishment in 2000, the Historical Hall was re-openened in its former guise to provide a worthy setting for exhibitions and functions. In 2012, it hosts the central exhibition to mark the university’s 275th anniversary.