Universities are centers of education, science and culture, playing a key role in the development of society. Each of them has a unique history, traditions and outstanding graduates. In this article, we will look at the ten oldest higher education institutions in the world, which have not only retained their special spirit, but also present an up-to-date educational program in our time.
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Al-Azhar (970)
Al-Azhar, located in Cairo, is the oldest and most reputable Islamic institution of higher education in the world, dating back to 970. Al-Azhar was originally a mosque, but over time it has evolved into a crucial center of Islamic learning and culture. Today, Al-Azhar continues to play a significant role in the life of the Muslim world, teaching students not only religious disciplines, but also secular sciences.
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University of Bologna (1088)
The University of Bologna, located in Italy, is considered the oldest European university. Founded in 1088, it became the founder of the modern university system. The University of Bologna is famous for its law faculties and still occupies a leading position in this field. Among notable alumni there are writers, scientists, and politicians, including the poet Dante Alighieri.
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University of Oxford (1096)
Founded in 1096, the University of Oxford in England is deservedly considered one of the most famous and elite universities in the world. Oxford is famous for both its academic achievements and rich history, and Oxford's university buildings are architectural monuments, attracting tourists from all over the world. Such outstanding people as Stephen Hawking, Oscar Wilde, and many British prime ministers studied here.
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University of Cambridge (1209)
The University of Cambridge was founded in 1209 and is not inferior to Oxford in prestige and influence, is also one of the best universities in the world and constantly competes with Oxford in world rankings. Among Cambridge alumni there are more than 90 Nobel Prize winners, including Isaac Newton and Charles Darwin. The university adheres to ancient traditions and holds annual ceremonial events that impress with their beauty and significance.
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Sorbonne (XII century)
The Sorbonne (part of the University of Paris), founded in the 12th century, is one of the most respected universities in Europe. Originally founded as a theological school, the Sorbonne quickly developed into a center for humanities and scientific research. The founder of the university was the priest Robert de Sorbonne, who sought to create a community to support poor theology students, and today the Sorbonne is known around the world, especially for its humanities faculties.
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University of Salamanca (1218)
The University of Salamanca in Spain has been active for many centuries and is famous for its faculties of humanities and law. Notable alumni include Spanish kings and famous poets.
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University of Montpellier (1220)
The University of Montpellier is located in France and was founded in 1220, today known for its medical and legal faculties. For several centuries, the University of Montpellier has taken part in important scientific discoveries and is considered a leading European educational and scientific center. Among the graduates of the university are eminent scientists and doctors who have had a significant impact on medicine and biology.
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University of Padua (1222)
The University of Padua in Italy has a long and rich history associated with the development of science and culture. Galileo Galilei himself taught in Padua, so the university is one of the most important centers for research in the field of astronomy and physics. It is also home to one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world.
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University of Naples Frederick II (1224)
The University of Naples Frederick II in Italy was founded in 1224 by the Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II. The University of Naples is famous for its faculties of law, medicine, philosophy, philology and literature, and continues to develop scientific research and curricula in various fields of knowledge.
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University of Toulouse (1229)
Founded in 1229, the University of Toulouse in France is one of the oldest universities in Europe, known for its humanities and law faculties. For centuries, the University of Toulouse has been considered the cultural and scientific center of France, attracting outstanding scientists and philosophers, and today continues its work, actively supporting scientific research and innovative projects.
The oldest universities in the world not only play an important role in education and science, but also reflect the cultural and historical heritage of their countries. These educational institutions gave birth to many of those educational and scientific traditions that continue to live and develop to this day. Majestic historic buildings, famous alumni and significance to world culture make them unique and timeless. Preserving their traditions and innovation, the oldest universities continue to influence the education and science of the world community.
