University of Bologna

The University of Bologna

The University of Bologna is the oldest university of the Western world, founded in 1088. The Bologna audio-guided tour stops here to evoke this prestigious institution, which earned the town its nickname of the Learned and attracted the greatest minds.

The oldest university of the Western world

The University of Bologna, the Alma Mater Studiorum, is considered the oldest university of the Western world, founded in 1088. It is this that earned the town its nickname of the Learned, or the Docta. Born from the meeting of masters and students who came from all over Europe, it distinguished itself first in the teaching of law, before shining in numerous disciplines. Over the centuries, it attracted the greatest minds and counted among its students or its associated figures illustrious personalities, including humanists, scholars and artists. This university tradition has profoundly shaped the identity of Bologna, a student and intellectual town par excellence, animated by a youth who came from all over the world. Still today a leading institution, the University of Bologna is a pride and a major symbol of the town.

What to see

Here you discover the Alma Mater Studiorum, founded in 1088 and considered the oldest university of the Western world, which earned the town its nickname of the Learned, shone first in law then attracted the greatest minds, shaping the identity of Bologna, a student town par excellence. The university is a pride and a symbol of Bologna. It is a stop for those curious about history, to be explored on foot.

Practical information

The University of Bologna occupies numerous buildings in the heart of the town, notably around Via Zamboni, reachable on foot. The university buildings and the museums attached to them follow their own hours and conditions, which vary. You discover the student atmosphere during a walk in the university quarter.

Why is the University of Bologna famous?

Founded in 1088, it is considered the oldest university of the Western world; it earned the town its nickname of the Learned, shone first in the teaching of law and attracted the greatest minds through the centuries.

Where is the University of Bologna?

In the heart of Bologna, notably around Via Zamboni, in Italy.