St. Mary Magdalene High School in Wrocław

St. Mary Magdalene Gymnasium in Wrocław, founded in 1267, was the oldest municipal school in the city and the first Protestant school in the region. Over the centuries, the institution underwent numerous transformations, and its history was intertwined with important figures and events of the region. Initially, the school was housed in a building north of St. Mary Magdalene Church, and its status changed several times—it originally operated as a school teaching at the trivium level. After the Reformation, in 1523, the school transformed into a Protestant institution, which fostered new teaching methods. In 1643, under the leadership of Heinrich Closius, it was granted gymnasium status, elevating its standing in education. In 1710, a new school building was erected, followed by another structure opened in 1869, reflecting its prestige. The school placed strong emphasis on the humanities and practical subjects, attracting numerous students and reaching a record enrollment of 1,063 pupils in 1866. From 1929 to 1945, the gymnasium moved to a newly constructed building on Parkowa Street and became known for its modern approach to education. During this period, it featured modern facilities such as gymnasiums and a swimming pool. Despite being regarded as progressive, the school was compelled to adapt to the Nazi educational system in 1933. It was distinguished by its rich educational traditions and curriculum reforms, and after the end of World War II, the school was closed. Today, the building that once housed the gymnasium is home to the II General Secondary School with a sports profile.