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

The lecture traces the connections between the electoral jubilee figure Carl Theodor (1724–1799)—whose 300th birthday and 225th anniversary of his death are being celebrated in many places this year—and the former royal seat of Heidelberg. Starting with the 18th century, when Heidelberg lost its status as a royal residence, the lecture first looks back on the city’s heyday as a royal seat. This is followed by a discussion of developments in competition with Mannheim and during the Carl Theodor era. Finally, the presentation draws a connection 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 chancery during his reign—thus connects the past and the present and is therefore an important site for this year’s commemoration.

About the Author: Dr. Heike Hawicks is a research associate at Das Deutsche Rechtswörterbuch of the Heidelberg Academy of Sciences and Humanities and a lecturer in medieval history, regional and university history, and basic historical sciences 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 broadest sense.

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

The series is held in cooperation with the vhs Heidelberg.