Marstall Mensa

Marstall (Stables) was built in the 16th Century and has been well-preserved since the late middle ages. It was ultimately used as an arsenal for war, as you can see, there are four defense towers located at each of the building's corners and foot-holes for small arms. It was built in close proximity to the Neckar River so that trading vessels could anchor in front of it. The ground floor of the Marstall complex was used for stables and the upper floor for dwelling-units.

A few hundred years later, in 1921, the Marstall Mensa (cafeteria) was opened as one of the many efforts of helping mal-nutritioned students during the time of inflation. Students had no choice but to work in tobacco factories, coal mines, and farms to earn their daily bread. Johann Hermann Mitgau helped develop the "Heidelberg Student Help Organization ", also known as, the "Studentenwerk" today.

The Marstall Mensa is still in use today, and students frequently come here to study outside, enjoy live music/bands in the Marstall cafe, meet with their study groups, or enjoy the sun in the inner-courtyard.