28/10/2025
Rizal in Heidelberg, Germany🇩🇪
February 03 to June 25, 1886
1. Purpose of His Stay
Rizal went to Heidelberg to continue his medical studies, specifically to specialize in ophthalmology. His goal was to treat his mother’s growing blindness (Teodora Alonso).
He trained under Dr. Otto Becker, a renowned ophthalmologist at the University of Heidelberg.
2. Academic and Professional Growth
Rizal observed and assisted in eye operations, gaining advanced knowledge in ophthalmology.
He improved his German and interacted with many intellectuals, doctors, and students.
He admired the discipline and efficiency of the Germans, comparing them favorably to colonial conditions in the Philippines.
3. Personal Development
Rizal found Heidelberg to be a peaceful and beautiful city. He enjoyed walking along the Neckar River and often visited the Heidelberg Castle.
He developed a deep appreciation for German culture, especially its love of order, cleanliness, and learning.
4. “A Las Flores de Heidelberg”
One of his most famous poems, “A Las Flores de Heidelberg” (“To the Flowers of Heidelberg”), was written during his stay.
In this poem, he expressed homesickness and longing for the Philippines while reflecting on the flowers along the Neckar River.
It symbolized his love for his homeland even while abroad.
Go to my country, go, O foreign flowers,
Sown by the traveler along the road,
And there beneath that sky of gold,
Proclaim that soon I shall return...
5. Friendship and Connections
Rizal became close friends with Dr. Karl Ullmer and stayed with him in Wilhelmsfeld, a nearby town. Ullmer’s family treated Rizal warmly,
and their home still stands today with a Rizal memorial plaque.
This friendship is remembered as a symbol of Filipino-German friendship.
📍 Rizal Landmarks in Heidelberg and Wilhelmsfeld
If you visit today, you can see:
Rizal Plaque at Ludwigsplatz, Heidelberg
Rizal Park and Memorial in Wilhelmsfeld
University of Heidelberg Eye Clinic (where he trained)
