The Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg celebrates its 500th anniversary in 2002. It is not only the oldest and largest educational institution in the state of Saxony-Anhalt, but also one of the most traditional universities in Germany. Founded in 1694, it was at that time the leading and most modern German university. In 1817, the Leucorea, which opened in 1502, was merged with the Academia Fridericiana to form the University of Halle-Wittenberg, which underwent another expansion in 1993 with the integration of two additional colleges. This illustrated book showcases the growth of the university and its architectural development through historical and modern photographs, aspects of the vibrant academic life—from student societies to junior professors—and the significant political eras, depicted through ceremonial events and public occasions. Dr. Ralf-Torsten S.