A Century of Cultural History
The Heidelberg City Hall concert house looks back on a checkered history: Since its construction at the beginning of the 20th century, it has served as a central venue for culture, science, and social life. Periods of change – from wartime use to extensive renovation – shaped the building as much as its continuous development. Today, historic architecture is combined with modern function here, building on its significance as a vibrant event venue.
Our Story
1901
Construction and Genesis
The Heidelberg City Hall is being built according to the plans of architects Jakob Henkenhaf and Friedrich Ebert as a prestigious assembly and event building. The occasion is the 100th anniversary of the university reform of 1803. The building combines elements of the Renaissance, Wilhelminian era, and Art Nouveau.
1903
Grand Opening
On August 5, 1903, the Stadthalle was ceremoniously inaugurated. From then on, it served as Heidelberg's central "parlor" for social, cultural, and scientific events. The large ballroom with a concert organ forms the heart of the building.
1914
First World War
During the First World War, the town hall is repurposed and used as a military hospital. Its original function as a venue for celebrations and events recedes into the background, and the building serves medical purposes for treating the wounded.
1933
End of the Weimar Republic
During the Nazi era, the Stadthalle was used for political events. During the Second World War, it once again served as a reserve hospital.
1940
World War II
In 1940, the Stadthalle survived an air raid with minor damage. The traces of the repairs made at the time are still visible today next to the side entrance on Untere Neckarstraße.
1945
Post-war period
After the Second World War, the Stadthalle was used by the US Army as a "Special Service Center." It served for the recreation and entertainment of the soldiers before being returned to the city of Heidelberg later.
1951
Return to the City
The Stadthalle will return to the ownership of the City of Heidelberg. It will once again be used as an event venue and re-establish itself as a central meeting point for cultural and social events.
1970
Zundel Era
The old town is to be renovated and made car-friendly. The town hall is on the verge of demolition, but instead, it is being extensively restored down to the last detail for over 15 million Deutschmarks.
1980
Reopening after Renovation
At the end of 1980, the Stadthalle reopened as a congress center. An initial fundamental restoration was carried out to preserve the historic building. The Stadthalle was modernized while being restored as faithfully as possible to its original condition.
2010
Expansion Plans
The city plans to extend the town hall with a modern annex. However, these plans are rejected by a large majority in a public referendum.
2019
Closure
The Stadthalle will close in August 2019 for extensive modernization and redesign.
2021
Start of refurbishment
After lengthy discussions, the building permit is issued. Extensive work begins on restoring historical elements and modernizing the technical infrastructure.
2026
Reopening
On February 1, 2026, the Konzerthaus Stadthalle Heidelberg will reopen as a modern concert hall after extensive renovation, combining historical architecture with contemporary use.