Greifswald is often described as a university with a city around it. The tradition-conscious and modern University of Greifswald was founded in 1456 on the initiative of the mayor of Greifswald, Heinrich Rubenow. After Rostock, it is the second-oldest university in the Baltic Sea region and shapes the city, life and residents alike. To the historic university campus, which stretches between the two churches St. Nicholas and St Jacobi includes the late baroque main university building and the brick buildings of the old auditorium, old library and observatory. Also the Botanic Garden was once located within the city walls but was moved to its current location due to lack of space.