Stand in this huge amphitheatre built by the Nazis to reflect on its former purpose, then learn about what takes place in spring at this venue today.
Thingplatz (or Thingstätte) is an open-air amphitheatre set on Heiligenberg (Holy Mountain), which rises above the city of Heidelberg. The amphitheatre, built in the National Socialist style, serves as a stark reminder of the powerful dictatorship of Nazi-ruled Germany. Sit on the stone steps of the theatre and listen to the magnificent acoustics. Feel the eerie ambiance of the site.
Construction of the landmark took place in the mid 1930s as part of a plan by the Third Reich propaganda minister Joseph Goebbels to build hundreds of outdoor arenas. These were to be used to hold propaganda rallies. An estimated 20,000 spectators attended Goebbels’ opening speech at the theatre.
The oval-shaped arena features a stage surrounded by 56 rows of tiered seats. Staircases take you to the top of the stage, from where you can look at the audience and appreciate its enormity. Two hexagonal towers at the top of the seating area were used as flagpoles and for sound and lighting equipment. The superb acoustics allow you to hear someone’s normal voice while sitting almost 656 feet (200 metres) from the stage.
An interesting time to visit the attraction is for the Walpurgis Festival, which takes place from the last night of April. According to ancient German folklore, this is the night when witches celebrate the arrival of spring. Join the thousands that come to light bonfires, set off fireworks and watch street performers in an all-night celebration.
Be sure to visit the other landmarks and monuments that lay scattered across Heiligenberg. To the north of the amphitheatre are the ruins of the 1,000-year-old St. Michael’s Monastery. The views back toward the Old Town from here are exquisite. To the south is a medieval shaft called Heidenloch and the relics of the 11th-century St. Stephen’s Monastery.
Thingplatz is a 30-minute drive from the Old Town. Parking is available adjacent to St. Michael’s Monastery. Consider reaching Thingplatz on foot via the Philosopher’s Walk, a trail that begins close to the northern end of Theodor-Heuss Bridge and follows the slopes of Heiligenberg.
