Anatomical Theatre
The building, dating from 1744, was designed by Leuven architect Jacques-Antoine Hustin at the request of Henri-Joseph Rega, physician and then rector of the university. The purpose was to create the ideal circumstances for the investigation and observation of the human body. The students used to occupy wooden galleries arranged in a circle - now disappeared - to observe the dissections and anatomy lessons taking place in the central part of the room.
Next to the theatre, the building features 2 small rooms that were used to store the bodies.
The anatomical theatre is in a late-baroque style, featuring rococo characteristics, as can be seen in the decoration of the cupola.
The building has been listed as a historic monument since 1999.
AttentionThe anatomical theatre is currently closed for visitors
Practical info
- 01.04 -30.09 • 13:30-16:30
- Mondays: closed
- Free entrance
- Address: Minderbroedersstraat 50, 3000 Leuven • location on map
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