top of page
Throwing Caps

Oldest Universities | in the world

Here's a list of some of the oldest universities in the world:

  1. University of Bologna - Italy (Founded in 1088)

  2. University of Oxford - United Kingdom (Founded in 1096)

  3. University of Salamanca - Spain (Founded in 1134)

  4. University of Paris - France (Founded in 1150)

  5. University of Cambridge - United Kingdom (Founded in 1209)

  6. University of Padua - Italy (Founded in 1222)

  7. University of Naples Federico II - Italy (Founded in 1224)

  8. University of Toulouse - France (Founded in 1229)

  9. University of Siena - Italy (Founded in 1240)

  10. University of Valladolid - Spain (Founded in 1241)

  11. University of Montpellier - France (Founded in 1289)

  12. University of Coimbra - Portugal (Founded in 1290)

  13. University of Macerata - Italy (Founded in 1290)

  14. University of Lisbon - Portugal (Founded in 1290)

  15. University of Lleida - Spain (Founded in 1300)

  16. University of Rome La Sapienza - Italy (Founded in 1303)

  17. University of Perugia - Italy (Founded in 1308)

  18. University of Pisa - Italy (Founded in 1343)

  19. Charles University in Prague - Czech Republic (Founded in 1348)

  20. University of Vienna - Austria (Founded in 1365)

These universities have rich histories and have played significant roles in shaping higher education and academic traditions around the world.

List of oldest universities in the world

  1. University of Bologna - Italy (Founded in 1088): The University of Bologna, located in the historic city of Bologna, Italy, is widely regarded as the oldest university in the world. Founded in 1088, it stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of scholarship and learning in Europe. The University of Bologna played a pivotal role in shaping the modern university system and establishing academic traditions that continue to influence institutions of higher education globally. Renowned for its commitment to intellectual inquiry and academic excellence, Bologna University has attracted scholars and students from around the world for centuries. Its rich history, illustrious alumni, and vibrant intellectual environment make it a symbol of the pursuit of knowledge and innovation.

  2. University of Oxford - United Kingdom (Founded in 1096): The University of Oxford, nestled in the historic city of Oxford, England, is one of the most prestigious and oldest universities in the world. Founded in 1096, it has a distinguished history of academic excellence, innovation, and intellectual leadership. Oxford University has been a beacon of learning for over nine centuries, nurturing some of the brightest minds in various fields of study. With its iconic architecture, renowned scholars, and rich academic traditions, Oxford continues to be a global center for research, education, and intellectual discourse.

  3. University of Salamanca - Spain (Founded in 1134): The University of Salamanca, located in the charming city of Salamanca, Spain, holds the distinction of being one of the oldest universities in Europe. Established in 1134, it has a rich history of academic achievement, cultural significance, and intellectual exchange. Salamanca University played a pivotal role in the spread of knowledge and learning during the Middle Ages, attracting scholars and students from across Europe. With its beautiful architecture, vibrant student life, and commitment to academic excellence, Salamanca University remains a prestigious institution that continues to uphold its legacy of scholarship and innovation.

  4. University of Paris - France (Founded in 1150): The University of Paris, often referred to as the Sorbonne, is one of the oldest universities in Europe and a symbol of France's rich intellectual heritage. Founded in 1150, it emerged as a center of learning and intellectual inquiry during the Middle Ages, shaping the course of European academia. The University of Paris has produced numerous influential thinkers, scholars, and leaders who have made significant contributions to various fields of knowledge. With its illustrious history, diverse student body, and commitment to academic excellence, the Sorbonne continues to be a leading institution of higher learning in the world.

  5. University of Cambridge - United Kingdom (Founded in 1209): The University of Cambridge, situated in the picturesque city of Cambridge, England, is renowned for its academic excellence, storied history, and distinguished alumni. Established in 1209, it is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world. Cambridge University has been a center of scholarship and innovation for over eight centuries, fostering groundbreaking research and intellectual discovery across a wide range of disciplines. With its stunning architecture, renowned faculty, and vibrant student community, Cambridge continues to be a global leader in education and research.

  6. University of Padua - Italy (Founded in 1222): The University of Padua, located in the historic city of Padua, Italy, is one of the oldest universities in Europe and a beacon of academic excellence and innovation. Founded in 1222, it has a distinguished history of intellectual inquiry, scientific discovery, and cultural exchange. Padua University played a crucial role in the Renaissance, attracting leading scholars, scientists, and philosophers from across Europe. With its rich tradition of scholarship, state-of-the-art facilities, and commitment to interdisciplinary research, Padua University continues to be a dynamic hub of learning and discovery.

  7. University of Naples Federico II - Italy (Founded in 1224): The University of Naples Federico II, located in the historic city of Naples, Italy, is one of the oldest universities in Europe and a symbol of Italy's rich cultural and intellectual heritage. Founded in 1224 by the Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II, it has a long and illustrious history of academic excellence, scientific inquiry, and cultural exchange. Naples University has been a center of learning and innovation for over eight centuries, producing influential scholars, scientists, and thinkers who have made significant contributions to human knowledge. With its vibrant academic community, world-class faculty, and commitment to excellence, Naples University continues to be a leading institution of higher learning in Italy and beyond.

  8. University of Toulouse - France (Founded in 1229): The University of Toulouse, situated in the vibrant city of Toulouse, France, stands as one of the oldest universities in Europe, with roots dating back to 1229. It holds a prominent place in the history of academia, having played a pivotal role in the development and dissemination of knowledge during the Middle Ages. Toulouse University has a rich tradition of scholarly excellence, attracting students and academics from across Europe and beyond. With its historic buildings, esteemed faculty, and diverse range of academic disciplines, it continues to be a revered institution that upholds its commitment to intellectual inquiry and innovation.

  9. University of Siena - Italy (Founded in 1240): The University of Siena, nestled in the picturesque city of Siena, Italy, is celebrated as one of the oldest universities in Europe, tracing its origins back to 1240. With a heritage steeped in medieval scholarship and intellectual pursuit, Siena University has left an indelible mark on the landscape of higher education. Over the centuries, it has fostered a culture of academic excellence, attracting renowned scholars and nurturing generations of students. Today, the University of Siena continues to uphold its legacy of intellectual inquiry and cultural enrichment, offering a diverse array of programs and research opportunities that reflect its commitment to academic rigor and innovation.

  10. University of Valladolid - Spain (Founded in 1241): The University of Valladolid, located in the historic city of Valladolid, Spain, holds a venerable place among the oldest universities in Europe, with its founding dating back to 1241. Since its inception, Valladolid University has been a bastion of learning and enlightenment, shaping the intellectual landscape of Spain and beyond. With a rich tradition of scholarship and a commitment to academic excellence, it has produced influential thinkers, scholars, and leaders who have made significant contributions to various fields of knowledge. Today, the University of Valladolid continues to uphold its legacy of scholarly pursuit, fostering an environment of intellectual curiosity and innovation that prepares students to meet the challenges of the modern world.

  11. University of Montpellier - France (Founded in 1289): The University of Montpellier, situated in the historic city of Montpellier, France, is renowned as one of the oldest universities in Europe, with a founding date that traces back to 1289. It stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of medieval scholarship and intellectual inquiry, having played a central role in the development of European academia. Montpellier University has a proud tradition of excellence in education and research, attracting students and scholars from around the world to its esteemed halls. With its rich history, vibrant academic community, and commitment to innovation, it continues to be a beacon of intellectual curiosity and scholarly achievement.

  12. University of Coimbra - Portugal (Founded in 1290): The University of Coimbra, located in the historic city of Coimbra, Portugal, is one of the oldest universities in Europe, with its roots dating back to 1290. Steeped in centuries of tradition and scholarly excellence, Coimbra University has played a pivotal role in shaping the intellectual and cultural landscape of Portugal and beyond. With its distinguished faculty, historic campus, and commitment to academic rigor, it has attracted students and scholars from all corners of the globe. Today, the University of Coimbra continues to uphold its legacy of academic excellence, fostering a spirit of inquiry, creativity, and innovation among its students and faculty alike.

  13. University of Macerata - Italy (Founded in 1290): The University of Macerata, situated in the charming city of Macerata, Italy, is celebrated as one of the oldest universities in Europe, with a founding date that dates back to 1290. Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Marche region, Macerata University has a rich tradition of academic excellence and cultural significance, attracting students and scholars from across Italy and beyond. With its historic buildings, esteemed faculty, and commitment to scholarly inquiry, it continues to be a beacon of learning and enlightenment in the modern era. The University of Macerata remains dedicated to fostering intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and academic achievement among its diverse student body, ensuring that its legacy of excellence endures for generations to come.

  14. University of Lisbon - Portugal (Founded in 1290): The University of Lisbon, situated in the vibrant capital city of Portugal, stands as one of the oldest universities in Europe, with its origins tracing back to 1290. Founded during the Middle Ages, Lisbon University has played a pivotal role in the advancement of knowledge, scholarship, and cultural exchange. Over the centuries, it has fostered a tradition of academic excellence, attracting scholars and students from around the world to its historic halls. With its distinguished faculty, diverse range of academic disciplines, and commitment to innovation, Lisbon University continues to be a leading institution of higher learning, shaping the minds of future generations and contributing to the global pursuit of knowledge.

  15. University of Lleida - Spain (Founded in 1300): The University of Lleida, located in the historic city of Lleida in Catalonia, Spain, holds a revered place among the oldest universities in Europe, with its founding dating back to 1300. With a rich history spanning over seven centuries, Lleida University has been a center of intellectual inquiry, cultural exchange, and academic achievement. It has nurtured generations of scholars, thinkers, and leaders who have made significant contributions to various fields of knowledge. Today, the University of Lleida remains committed to its tradition of excellence, offering a diverse range of programs and research opportunities that reflect its dedication to academic rigor and innovation.

  16. University of Rome La Sapienza - Italy (Founded in 1303): The University of Rome La Sapienza, situated in the historic city of Rome, Italy, is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Europe, with its founding dating back to 1303. With a rich heritage spanning over seven centuries, La Sapienza University has been at the forefront of intellectual inquiry, scientific discovery, and cultural innovation. It has produced numerous influential thinkers, scholars, and leaders who have shaped the course of human history. Today, La Sapienza University remains a vibrant hub of learning and creativity, fostering a spirit of academic excellence and innovation that continues to inspire students and scholars from around the world.

  17. University of Perugia - Italy (Founded in 1308): The University of Perugia, located in the picturesque city of Perugia, Italy, holds a venerable place among the oldest universities in Europe, with its founding dating back to 1308. With a rich history spanning over seven centuries, Perugia University has been a bastion of learning and enlightenment, shaping the intellectual landscape of Italy and beyond. It has nurtured generations of scholars, thinkers, and leaders who have made significant contributions to various fields of knowledge. Today, the University of Perugia continues to uphold its tradition of academic excellence, offering a diverse range of programs and research opportunities that reflect its commitment to scholarly inquiry and innovation.

  18. University of Pisa - Italy (Founded in 1343): The University of Pisa, located in the historic city of Pisa, Italy, is celebrated as one of the oldest universities in Europe, with its founding dating back to 1343. With a rich tradition of academic excellence, scientific innovation, and cultural significance, Pisa University has been a beacon of learning and enlightenment for over six centuries. It has produced numerous influential scholars, scientists, and thinkers who have left an indelible mark on the world. Today, the University of Pisa remains committed to its mission of fostering intellectual inquiry, creativity, and innovation, providing students with a transformative educational experience that prepares them for success in an ever-changing world.

  19. Charles University in Prague - Czech Republic (Founded in 1348): Charles University in Prague, located in the historic city of Prague, Czech Republic, is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Europe, with its founding dating back to 1348. With a rich heritage spanning over six centuries, Charles University has been a center of intellectual inquiry, cultural exchange, and academic excellence. It has produced numerous influential scholars, scientists, and leaders who have made significant contributions to various fields of knowledge. Today, Charles University remains committed to its tradition of academic excellence, offering a diverse range of programs and research opportunities that reflect its dedication to scholarship, innovation, and global engagement.

  20. University of Vienna - Austria (Founded in 1365): The University of Vienna, situated in the historic city of Vienna, Austria, stands as one of the oldest universities in Europe, with its founding dating back to 1365. With a rich history spanning over six centuries, Vienna University has been a bastion of learning and enlightenment, shaping the intellectual landscape of Austria and beyond. It has nurtured generations of scholars, thinkers, and leaders who have made significant contributions to various fields of knowledge. Today, the University of Vienna continues to uphold its tradition of academic excellence, offering a diverse range of programs and research opportunities that reflect its commitment to scholarly inquiry, innovation, and global engagement.

These universities have rich histories and have played significant roles in shaping higher education and academic traditions around the world.

bottom of page