The University of Salamanca

The University of Salamanca

The University of Salamanca is the oldest in Spain and one of the oldest in Europe, famous for its sculpted façade. The Salamanca audio-guided tour stops here to evoke this high place of knowledge and its emblematic lucky frog.

A cradle of knowledge and the frog

Founded in the thirteenth century, the University of Salamanca is the oldest in Spain and one of the most prestigious in Europe. Its plateresque façade, a true lace of golden stone, is adorned with medallions, coats of arms and motifs of exceptional finesse. Tradition has it that you look, among the sculptures, for a small frog perched on a skull: finding it is said to bring luck. Beyond the legend, the university remains a symbol of the intellectual influence of the city.

What to see

You admire the finely sculpted plateresque façade, its medallions and coats of arms, and you look for the famous frog perched on a skull, a token of luck. Inside, the historic halls recall the prestige of the place. The University of Salamanca is a symbol of knowledge. It is a major stop, to be explored on foot.

Practical information

The University of Salamanca lies in the heart of the historic centre, reachable on foot. The façade can be freely admired from the street; the visit of the historic halls generally has a fee and follows its own hours, which vary. It is best to check the arrangements before coming.

What is the frog of the University of Salamanca?

A small sculpted frog, perched on a skull, hidden in the plateresque façade; tradition has it that finding it brings luck.

Where is the University of Salamanca?

In the heart of the historic centre of Salamanca, in Spain.