Friedrichsbau

The Friedrichsbau is a neoclassical building on Hauptstrasse in Heidelberg featuring elaborate stone ornamentation. The facade displays numerous statues of historical figures, while the interior preserves its original architectural details throughout three connected wings.

The structure was built between 1862 and 1863 under architect Wilhelm Waag's direction on the grounds of a former Dominican monastery. This development followed Grand Duke Karl Friedrich's decision to replace the religious site with a representative civic building.

The building is named after Elector Frederick and displays sculptures of notable figures from German history on its facade. These statues were created to honor significant personalities and give the location its distinctive character.

The building currently houses the Psychological Institute of Heidelberg University and can be viewed from the street. The neoclassical facade is clearly visible from Hauptstrasse, making it easy to locate in the town center.

The stone sculptures on the facade are replicas created in 1900, while the original statues are preserved inside the Friedrich Wing. This approach protected the valuable sculptures from weather damage over more than a century.