Historic Orphanage

The orphanage on Franckeplatz rises like a palace. Then as now it is the heart of the Francke Foundations. Built in 1698 as the first building in the school town, it stands for a new facet of the European Baroque, which combines self-confident representation without magnificent jewellery and became groundbreaking for orphanage architecture.

Today the orphanage is our museum and cultural centre. Right at the beginning, two permanent exhibitions will take you through the history of the foundation and the worldwide effects of Pietism. On the first floor, the former prayer and singing hall surprises with its light architecture. Today it also enjoys an excellent reputation as a concert hall due to its magnificent acoustics. In the adjoining conference rooms, a photo exhibition documents the impressive renovation work since the foundations were re-established in 1991. The second floor is reserved for our changing special exhibitions, which bring you closer to important topics in the history of the foundation from a historical and current perspective. Pass the Cabinet of Artefacts and Natural Curiosities on the top floor and reach the Altan via a narrow wooden staircase. Here you have a wide view over the impressive ensemble of school buildings from three centuries. From here you can also enjoy a magnificent panorama of the old town of Halle. Children can have their own way in the Krokoseum on the basement level.