Collège jésuite de Passau

The Jesuit College in Passau is a building with a castle-like structure featuring a central tower, three main floors, and marble-clad staircases on the western side. The classical design combines spacious interior areas with an organized layout.

Founded in 1611 by Prince-Bishop Archduke Leopold of Austria, the structure was built in 1613 by Jesuit Father Johannes Isfording from Molsheim. This construction marked the institutional presence of the order in the region for centuries to come.

The former dining hall holds important manuscripts from centuries of religious scholarship and study. You can sense how this space was central to the intellectual life of the community.

The site now houses the Leopoldinum Gymnasium and a section of the University of Passau, so some areas are not publicly accessible during school operations. The exterior of the building and tower can be viewed freely and provides a good overview of its architecture.

The building features a rare triple-stepped frame portal and includes an original tower with a bell floor, clock, and observatory. These technical elements show the scientific aspirations of the Jesuits in their educational mission.