Welcome to Leiden!

The Leiden humanist Justus Lipsius (Joost Lips, 1547-1606) made text editions of Tacitus and Seneca. He also wrote books on various aspects of Classical Antiquity and later philosophical works. The building forms the heart of the Faculty of Humanities, a true meeting place for staff and students. The Lipsius Building will function as the main conference venue, alongside the Huizinga Building.

Johan Huizinga (1872-1945) is considered one of the greatest Dutch cultural historians. He was professor of history and political geography and rector magnificus for some time. His 'Herfsttij der Middeleeuwen' and 'Homo ludens' have been translated into more than 20 languages. During the German occupation, he expelled someone from the university who had written an anti-Semitic pamphlet, which earned him a stay in the hostage camp in Sint Michielsgestel. The Huizinga Building is located next to Lipsius Building.

For over 900 years the Pieterskerk Leiden has been the central monument of Leiden. The two keys that symbolize the city of Leiden have their origin with St. Peter, after whom the Pieterskerk Leiden is named. The Pieterskerk Leiden no longer has an ecclesiastical function: for over 50 years now, the Pieterskerk Leiden is a national monument with a broad social function. The close ties with Leiden University are an integral part of the social function of the Pieterskerk Leiden. In 1575 the founding act of the university was signed in the Pieterskerk Leiden and to this day all major activities of Leiden University take place in the Pieterskerk Leiden. Historically, it is also the place where many famous scientists and artists are commemorated with their memorial monuments. The Pieterskerk Leiden will be the venue for the general meeting and the reception.