Lecture in the series "We Research. For You." IV

This lecture traces the relationship between the electoral prince Carl Theodor (1724–1799)—whose 300th birthday and 225th anniversary of his death are being celebrated in many places this year—and the old royal residence of Heidelberg. Beginning with the 18th century, when Heidelberg lost its status as a royal residence, the lecture first looks back at the city’s heyday as a royal seat. This is followed by a discussion of developments in competition with Mannheim and during the era of Carl Theodor. Finally, the narrative bridges the gap to the 19th and early 20th centuries, when the tradition of the old Electoral Palatinate Academy in Heidelberg was revived. Its location in the Grand Ducal Palace on Karlsplatz at the foot of the castle—which served as Carl Theodor’s provincial chancellery during his reign—thus connects the past and the present and is therefore a significant site for this year’s commemorations.

About the Author: Dr. Heike Hawicks is a research fellow at the German Legal Dictionary of Academy of Sciences and Humanities Heidelberg Academy of Sciences and Humanities a lecturer in medieval history, regional and university history, and basic historical studies at the Universities of Heidelberg and Mannheim. Her research focuses on medieval (urban) language, early medieval names, high medieval female rulers, legal history, and urban and regional history in its entirety.

About the lecture series: For over 20 years now, this public lecture series has been taking place, featuring scholars from the Heidelberg Academy of Sciences and Humanities well Academy of Sciences and Humanities from its seven sister academies. The lectures are aimed at a broad audience and are designed to provide insights into current research. Afterward, there will be an opportunity to chat with the scholars over pretzels and wine in the Academy’s courtyard garden.

The series is held in cooperation with vhs Heidelberg.