Italy is home to some of the oldest universities in the world and has a long and proud history of education. For centuries, the country has been a hub for learning, research, and innovation, and its universities have played a significant role in this. From the University of Bologna to Pavia Üniversitesi, these universities are some of Italy’s most prestigious educational institutions.
Each university has its own unique history and has produced some of the most influential people in Italian history. From scientists and philosophers to politicians and artists, these ten universities have been responsible for educating some of the most influential minds in history.
So let’s take a closer look at the 10 oldest universities in Italy and explore their rich history and traditions.
10. Pavia Üniversitesi
Year Founded: 1361
Location: S.da Nuova, 65, 27100 Pavia PV
Type: Public
Website: unipv.eu
photo source: Pisa Edu
Pavia University, also known as Università degli Studi di Pavia, is a public research university in Pavia, Italy. It is one of the oldest universities in the country, having been founded in 1361. Pavia University is known for its vital programs in several fields, including law, medicine, engineering, and natural sciences.
The university has a long history of academic excellence and has produced many notable alumni, including Nobel Prize winners and accomplished scholars and scientists.
The university is located on a spacious campus in Pavia and has a vibrant student community with students from Italy and around the world. In addition, Pavia University has a well-established international reputation and strong partnerships with universities and institutions worldwide.
The university is committed to research and innovation and is involved in various cutting-edge projects and initiatives in medicine, engineering, and the natural sciences.
Did You Know?
It is known for its supportive and inclusive environment and offers student services and resources, including housing, career services, and student organizations.
9. University of Pisa
Year Founded: 1343
Location: Lungarno Antonio Pacinotti, 43, 56126 Pisa PI
Type: Public
Website: www.unipi.it
photo source: Education Abroad
The University of Pisa is a renowned public research university in Pisa, Italy. Established in 1343, it is one of the oldest universities in the world and boasts a long history of academic excellence. The university is notably recognized for its exceptional mathematics, physics, engineering, and medicine programs.
The university’s campus is located in the center of Pisa and encompasses several historic buildings and landmarks.
It is a diverse community, attracting students from Italy and abroad, and is noted for its inclusive and supportive environment. The university strongly emphasizes research and innovation, participating in numerous cutting-edge initiatives in medicine, engineering, and the natural sciences.
Did You Know?
Throughout its history, the University of Pisa has produced many remarkable alumni, including Nobel Prize recipients and distinguished scholars and scientists.
8. University of Florence
Year Founded: 1321
Location: P.za di San Marco, 4, 50121 Firenze FI
Type: Public
Website: www.unifi.it
photo source: Encyclopedia Britannica
The University of Florence, also known as UniFi, is a public research university in Florence, Italy. It has a rich history and has been an important center of learning and research for over 700 years. It was established in 1321 and is one of the oldest universities in Europe.
UniFi offers various programs in various disciplines, including arts, humanities, natural sciences, medicine, and engineering. It has a student population of over 60,000 and is recognized as one of the top universities in Italy. The university is renowned for contributing to several fields of study, including the arts, medicine, and science.
Did You Know?
It has produced numerous notable alumni, including Leonardo da Vinci, Niccolò Machiavelli, and Galileo Galilei.
7. University of Perugia
Year Founded: 1308
Location: Piazza dell’Università, 1, 06123 Perugia PG
Type: Public
Website: www.unipg.it
photo source: Wikipedia
The University of Perugia is a public research university located in Perugia, Italy. It was founded in 1308 and is one of the oldest universities in Italy. The university has a student population of over 50,000 and offers various undergraduate and graduate programs in multiple disciplines, including medicine, law, economics, arts, and sciences.
The university is committed to research, with numerous centers and institutes dedicated to studying medicine, law, and economics. The University of Perugia is well-regarded for its education and research quality and is considered one of the top universities in Italy. With its rich history and reputation for excellence, the University of Perugia continues to attract students from Italy and abroad.
Did You Know?
The university is also known for its international partnerships, with numerous exchange programs and collaborations with universities and institutions worldwide.
6. Sapienza University of Rome La Sapienza
Year Founded: 1303
Location: Piazzale Aldo Moro, 5, 00185 Roma RM
Type: Public
Website: www.uniroma1.it/en
photo source: Smapse
The Sapienza University of Rome, also known as La Sapienza, is a public research university in Rome, Italy. It was founded in 1303 and is one of Europe’s oldest and largest universities. The university offers various undergraduate and graduate programs in multiple disciplines, including medicine, engineering, arts, and sciences.
La Sapienza is renowned for its commitment to research, with numerous research centers and institutes dedicated to studying subjects such as medicine, engineering, and the humanities. La Sapienza is considered one of the top universities in Italy and one of the leading universities in Europe and is known for its education and research quality.
Did You Know?
With a student population of over 140,000, La Sapienza is one of the largest universities in Italy and Europe.
5. University of Macerata
Year Founded: 1290
Location: Via Giovanni Mario Crescimbeni, 30, 62100 Macerata MC
Type: Public
Website: www.unimc.it
photo source: Education Abroad
The University of Macerata is a public university located in Macerata, Italy. It was established in 1290 and is one of the oldest universities in Italy. It offers a wide range of academic programs in law, economics, arts, and humanities and has a strong reputation in international studies. The university has a diverse student body, with many international students from all over the world.
The campus is modern and well-equipped, with state-of-the-art technology and facilities, including a library, computer labs, and sports facilities. The university is also active in research and has many partnerships with other universities and research institutions in Italy and abroad.
Did You Know?
The university was founded in 1290 as a school of law and was one of the first universities in Europe to offer degree programs in law.
4. University of Siena
Year Founded: 1240
Location: Via Banchi di Sotto 55, Siena, Toscana
Type: Public
Website: www.unisi.it
photo source: University of Siena
The University of Siena, founded in 1240, is one of the oldest universities in Italy. Located in the historic city of Siena, it is renowned for its world-class education and research opportunities. The university offers a range of degree programs, from traditional humanities to modern sciences and engineering.
It also provides a range of specializations and minors and a variety of international exchange programs. The university has over 20,000 students and hosts regular conferences, seminars, and other events.
The University of Siena is organized into 11 departments, with faculties in economics, law, engineering, and medicine. In addition, it has 14 research centers and institutes and provides postgraduate and doctoral programs. It is also renowned for its Gothic cathedral, stunning public squares, and charming alleys.
The medieval atmosphere and the university’s excellent educational offerings make for an unforgettable experience.
Did You Know?
One of the university’s most notable alumni is Pope Innocent III.
3. University of Naples Federico II
Year Founded: 1224
Location: C.so Umberto I, 40, 80138 Napoli NA
Type: Public
Website: www.unina.it
photo source: FindAPhD
The University of Naples Federico II is one of Italy’s oldest and most prestigious universities. Founded in 1224, it is the world’s second-oldest university and has a long history of scientific and cultural achievements.
Over the centuries, it has produced some of the most renowned scholars and scientists, including Galileo Galilei and Antonio Meucci. It is also home to the oldest medical school in the world and the world’s first botanical garden.
Today, the University of Naples Federico II is a central scientific and cultural activity hub. Its departments include medicine, law, engineering, economics and business, sociology, and humanities. It has over 70,000 students enrolled, and its degrees are widely respected.
Did You Know?
The University of Naples Federico II has an extensive library and several research centers and is part of the EuroTech Universities Alliance.
2. University of Padova
Year Founded: 1222
Location: Via VIII Febbraio, 2, 35122 Padova PD
Type: Public
Website: www.unipd.it
photo source: Unipd
The University of Padova is a renowned educational establishment with a rich history, having been established in 1222 and making it one of the oldest universities in the world. Located in the Italian city of Padua, the university is considered prestigious and has been a major player in academia since its inception.
The university is well-known for its exceptional research in diverse fields such as medicine, astronomy, mathematics, physics, and the humanities, and it boasts a roster of accomplished scholars. In addition, its academic programs have earned international recognition and respect.
With its extensive library, modern laboratories, and state-of-the-art lecture theaters, the University of Padova has a comprehensive set of resources for students.
Did You Know?
The University of Padova is a hub of cultural and athletic activities, with events such as the Historical Regatta, which takes place on the city’s main river.
1. University of Bologna
Year Founded: 1088
Location: Via Zamboni, 33, 40126 Bologna BO
Type: Public
Website: unibo.it
photo source: Pava Education
The University of Bologna is the oldest in the world, founded in 1088. Located in Bologna, Italy, it is one of the most prestigious universities in the world, with a long and distinguished history. The university is renowned for its high quality of teaching and research, with many of its academic staff members won prestigious awards.
It currently has over 85,000 students enrolled, ranging from undergraduate to doctoral level. It has various courses, from engineering and sciences to humanities, arts, and law.
The University of Bologna is also known for its research and has produced several Nobel Laureates, including Carlo Rubbia and Enrico Fermi. In addition, the University of Bologna is well known for its social life. It has several student clubs and organizations and a vibrant nightlife.
The school also has several campuses located in different cities around Italy, allowing students to explore other parts of the country while studying.
Did You Know?
The University of Bologna is home to several important cultural attractions, such as Palazzo Poggi, the Church of San Stefano, and the Archiginnasio.
