Education has a long and rich history. Some universities in the world were built hundreds or even thousands of years ago. While many old institutions disappeared over time, a few have survived and are still active today. These universities are special because they have adapted to modern education while keeping their traditions alive. Let’s have a look at the list of top-10 oldest universities of the world.
World’s Oldest University
The University of Bologna in Italy is the oldest university in the world that is still running today. It started teaching around the year 1088 and later became a proper university. Its motto means “nourishing mother of studies,” showing its importance in education. Today, it is a large public university with more than 90,000 students. It offers many courses and continues to be one of Europe’s leading centers of learning.
Top-10 Oldest Universities in the World
University of Bologna, located in Italy, is the oldest university in the world, followed by University of Oxford, University of Salamanca, University of Paris, and University of Cambridge.
Here is the list of top-10 oldest universities in the world:
| OLDEST UNIVERSITIES IN THE WORLD | ||||
| Rank | University | Country | Establishment | Notable Feature |
| 1. | University of Bologna | Italy | 1088 | Oldest university globally, diverse programs |
| 2. | University of Oxford | United Kingdom | 1096-1167 | Renowned alumni including prime ministers, Nobel laureates |
| 3. | University of Salamanca | Spain | 1134 | Royal charter in 1218, Columbus’ royal support |
| 4. | University of Paris (Sorbonne) | France | 1160-1250 | Divided into 13 institutions in 1970 |
| 5. | University of Cambridge | United Kingdom | 1209 | Founded due to political conflicts, intense rivalry with Oxford |
| 6. | University of Padua | Italy | 1222 | Surviving medieval institution, early research in various fields |
| 7. | University of Naples Federico II | Italy | 1224 | Founded by Emperor Federico II, over 100,000 students |
| 8. | University of Siena | Italy | 1240 | UNESCO World Heritage Site, about 20,000 students |
| 9. | University of Coimbra | Portugal | Moved locations, historical buildings, UNESCO World Heritage Site | |
| 10. | Al-Azhar University | Egypt | 970 (as a center) / 1961 (as a university) | Originally for Islamic teaching, now offers academic programs |
Oldest University of the World – University of Bologna
Country: Italy
Establishment: 1088
The University of Bologna is known as the oldest university in the world that is still running today. It first focused on higher studies like doctorates, but now it offers many different courses. Thousands of students from different countries study here. It has a strong history and is still very popular.
Second Oldest University in the World – University of Oxford
Country: United Kingdom
Establishment: 1096-1167
The University of Oxford is one of the most famous universities in the world. It does not have a clear founding date, but teaching started here many centuries ago. Many important people studied here, including scientists and leaders. It is known for its high-quality education and large student community.
World’s Third Oldest University – University Salamanca
Country: Spain
Establishment: 1134
The University Salamanca is the oldest university in Spain. It became famous when explorer Christopher Columbus visited here to seek support for his journey. Today, it has many campuses and students from different backgrounds.
University of Paris
Location: France
Established: Between 1160-1250
The University of Paris, also called the Sorbonne, was one of Europe’s first universities. It stopped working for some time during the French Revolution but later returned in a new form. Today, it is divided into several institutions across Paris.