5 of the Oldest Universities in the World
Universities have been citadels of knowledge and have played a key role in society’s progress for centuries. We look at the five oldest universities in the world, which have not only stood the test of time but have also shaped the intellectual landscapes since their formation.
University of Bologna (1088)
The University of Bologna, Italy, is the world’s oldest university. Founded in 1088, it received a charter from Emperor Frederick I Barbarossa in 1158. Some of its alums were Prime Ministers and Popes. Thanks to its student capacity of around 90,000, it’s also one of the largest universities.
University of Oxford (1096)
Apart from being the world’s second oldest university, the University of Oxford has the largest university press and the oldest university museum. Established in 1096, it received a charter from King Henry III in 1248. Besides being renowned for its research, the university has over 30 British Prime Ministers as alums.
University of Cambridge (1209)
Founded in 1209 by mostly aggrieved students from the University of Oxford, the University of Cambridge has become one of Britain’s top universities. Often rated among the best schools in the world, it is also reputed for its research culture. The school is affiliated with over 120 Nobel Prize winners.
University of Salamanca (1218)
One of King Alfonso IX’s legacies is the founding of the University of Salamanca in 1218. Interestingly, the school started as a cathedral school before it became a university. It has around 30,000 students at any given point, and several alums have become renowned clergy members, professors, and poets.
University of Padua (1222)
The University of Padua is the last university on our list. Founded in 1222, it is also research-based. What started as a school teaching law and theology grew to include subjects like medicine, philosophy, and astronomy. Some notable alums include Vesalius, an early and influential figure in anatomy.
