Academiegebouw, University administrative building in Groningen, Netherlands.
The Academiegebouw is the administrative center of the University of Groningen, featuring a rectangular floor plan with two stories and steeply pitched roofs. A rounded tower on the northwestern corner houses a carillon and dominates the Neo-Renaissance composition.
A fire destroyed the previous building in 1906, prompting architect Jan Vrijman to design a new Neo-Renaissance structure that opened in 1909. This rebuilt facility became the core of the university's administrative operations.
Five sandstone figures on the front façade depict different fields of knowledge such as Minerva, Scientia, and Historia. They reflect the educational ideals that shaped the university when it was built.
Multiple meeting halls are housed inside, such as Heymanszaal, Engelsezaal, and Bruinszaal, available for viewing and events. A side entrance with an elevator provides accessible access to all floors throughout the building.
The main hall displays stained glass windows presented by Queen Wilhelmina in 1938 to honor her honorary doctorate from 1914. These windows represent a personal gift from Dutch royalty to commemorate the university's recognition of her achievements.
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