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Academy Building in Leiden — listed monument: The Academy Building on the Rapenburg has been the heart of the oldest university in the

Academy Building in Leiden

The Academy Building on the Rapenburg has been the heart of the oldest university in the Netherlands since 1581, complete with the famous Sweat Room.

What you see at Academy Building

Inside are the Senate Chamber with its professorial portraits and the Sweat Room, where PhD candidates sign the wall before their defence. The Hortus botanicus begins right behind the building.

The history of Academy Building

Originally a convent chapel, it was taken into use when the university was founded in 1575. Einstein, Lorentz and Huygens taught or spoke in these halls.

Visiting Academy Building: practical tips

Open on weekdays during office hours when no ceremony is taking place. Combine it with the Hortus botanicus and the National Museum of Antiquities on the same canal.

Combine with nearby places

Things to do nearby

Location, opening hours & tickets

Address

Academiegebouw
Rapenburg 73
2311 GJ Leiden

15-minute walk from Leiden Centraal

Get directions Official website

Opening hours

Monday09:00–17:00
Tuesday09:00–17:00
Wednesday09:00–17:00
Thursday09:00–17:00
Friday09:00–17:00
SaturdayClosed
SundayClosed

Opening hours and prices are indicative — check the official website before your visit, especially around public holidays.

Frequently asked questions

What are the opening hours of Academiegebouw?
Academiegebouw is open on Mon–Fri 09:00–17:00. Closed on Sat, Sun. Hours are indicative; check the official website around public holidays.
How much is a ticket for Academiegebouw?
No fixed admission price is listed for Academiegebouw; check the official website for current rates.
Can you buy tickets for Academiegebouw online?
Tickets for Academiegebouw are sold at the desk or via the official website. Our tickets page does offer combination tickets for other Leiden attractions.
How do I get to Academiegebouw?
Academiegebouw is a 15-minute walk from Leiden Centraal. Arriving by car? Use a city-centre car park and walk the last stretch.
When is Academiegebouw least busy?
Weekday mornings just after opening and the final hour before closing are the quietest times at Academiegebouw. School holidays, Sundays and public holidays are busiest.