The oldest universities in the world still thriving today | from ancient to modern
The phrase "Old is gold" is well recognised, and many of the oldest universities in the world have embraced this idea. Throughout history, numerous renowned educational institutions have contributed significantly to the development of human knowledge. While some have been lost over time, many others continue to thrive in this modern era. This blog will cover the ones that have survived the test of time.
Oldest universities in the world
Let's dive into the fascinating history of the oldest universities that are still running strong today. These institutions have been around for centuries, some even over a thousand years, and they've shaped the way education is delivered across the world.
University of al-Qarawiyyin (Founded in 859 AD, Morocco)
The first oldest university in the world that we are going to cover is located in Morocco. Imagine a university that's older than most modern countries! Al-Qarawiyyin, in Fez, is widely considered the world's oldest continuously operating university.
It was established by Fatima al-Fihri, an amazing woman who used her inheritance to create a centre for learning. Today, al-Qarawiyyin is still known for its focus on Islamic studies, mathematics, astronomy, and languages.
Notable Alumni:
- Maimonides (1135/1138-1204): A renowned Jewish philosopher, astronomer, and physician.
- Ibn Arabi (1165-1240): A prominent Sufi philosopher and mystic.
- Ibn Khaldun (1332-1406): A famous historian, philosopher, and sociologist
Al-Azhar University (Founded around 970 AD, Egypt)
Founded in Cairo, Al-Azhar began as a centre for Islamic learning and has grown into one of the leading universities in the Arab world. It was originally built to support the study of Shi'a Islam but has since become a centre for Sunni scholarship. At present, this 2nd oldest university in the world lets you study a wide range of subjects, blending religious and modern education.
Notable Alumni:
- Aliko Dangote: Nigerian businessman and Africa's richest person, founder of the Dangote Group.
- Abdurrahman Wahid (Gus Dur): Fourth President of Indonesia and a prominent Islamic leader.
- Taha Hussein: Renowned Egyptian writer and intellectual, often recognised as the "Dean of Arabic Literature."
University of Bologna (Founded in 1088, Italy)
Bologna is often called the oldest university in Europe, and it's famous for creating the word "university" itself! Known for law and the humanities, Bologna became a model for many universities across Europe. Even today, students and professors from around the world travel to Bologna to study in its historic halls.
Notable Alumni:
- Nicolaus Copernicus: Renowned astronomer who formulated the heliocentric model of the universe.
- Laura Bassi: One of the first women to earn a doctorate in science and a professor at the university.
- Guglielmo Marconi: Inventor of the radio who shared the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1909.
University of Oxford (Founded around 1096, England)
Oxford isn't just one of the oldest—it's also one of the most famous. The exact founding date is unclear, but there were definitely students there in 1096. This university has produced world leaders, scientists, and writers. Walking through Oxford's ancient buildings feels like stepping back in time while seeing some of the best modern research happening at the same time.
Notable Alumni:
- Margaret Thatcher: A formidable figure in British politics and served as United Kingdom’s first female Prime Minister.
- J.R.R. Tolkien: Famous author of "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit."
- Rowan Atkinson: Acclaimed actor and comedian known for his role as Mr. Bean.
University of Paris (Founded around 1150, France)
Often called the "Sorbonne," the University of Paris is one of the oldest in Europe, especially known for its focus on theology, philosophy, and later the sciences. Though it's had a complex history, including closures and reorganisations, it has evolved into a network of institutions. Its legacy lives on in Parisian universities that carry its spirit.
Notable Alumni:
- Marie Curie: Pioneering physicist and chemist, the first woman to win a Nobel Prize and the only person to win Nobel Prizes in two different scientific fields.
- Stephen Langton: Archbishop of Canterbury and a key figure in the development of the Magna Carta.
- Thomas Aquinas: Influential philosopher and theologian known for his works in Scholasticism.
University of Cambridge (Founded in 1209, England)
Cambridge started when scholars fled Oxford due to a conflict. It's Oxford's "younger sibling" but has rivalled its achievements for centuries. The university has nurtured legendary thinkers like Isaac Newton and Charles Darwin. Cambridge's reputation for excellence continues to draw students from across the world.
Notable Alumni:
- Stephen Hawking: Renowned theoretical physicist and cosmologist.
- Isaac Newton: Influential mathematician and physicist known for his laws of motion and universal gravitation.
- Charles Darwin: Pioneering naturalist, best known for his theory of evolution by natural selection.
University of Salamanca (Founded in 1218, Spain)
Known as the "Oxford of Spain," Salamanca was the place to be during Spain's Golden Age. The university played a massive role in discussions around the Age of Exploration and even influenced the development of international law. Today, it's a popular destination for students wanting to study Spanish language and culture.
Notable Alumni:
- Francisco Suárez: Influential philosopher and theologian during Spain's Golden Age.
- Miguel de Cervantes: Renowned writer best known for his novel "Don Quixote."
- Gustavo Petro: President of Colombia and former member of the M19 guerrilla movement.
University of Padua (Founded in 1222, Italy)
Founded by scholars fleeing Bologna's strict regulations, Padua quickly became a sanctuary for academic freedom. Known for medicine and astronomy, it attracted great minds like Galileo. Padua has a strong reputation for sciences, maintaining its influential position in Europe's academic landscape.
Notable Alumni:
- Andreas Vesalius: Founding father of modern human anatomy, known for his work "De Humani Corporis Fabrica."
- William Harvey Made the groundbreaking discovery of the circulation of blood.
- Marcantonio della Torre: Anatomy instructor to Leonardo da Vinci.
How did old universities manage to survive this long?
Each of these old universities in the world has a unique story, demonstrating resilience and the value of knowledge passed down through centuries. As they continue to thrive, they connect students today with a rich academic heritage that spans from ancient to modern times. These institutions are more than places of learning; they are living archives of human progress and enlightenment.
End note
The oldest active universities aren't just old—they're thriving hubs of modern learning and carry centuries of tradition while also embracing change. They remind us that the pursuit of knowledge is timeless, and we're part of something much bigger!
FAQ's
What is the oldest university in Asia still operating?
The oldest university in Asia that is still operating is the University of Santo Tomas (UST) in Manila, Philippines. It was founded on July 24, 1605, by Bishop Miguel de Benavides and has been in continuous operation since then.
What are the top 3 United States universities with 100 years history?
The United States is home to some of the oldest universities in the world, such as:
- Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts, founded in 1636, holds the title of the oldest university in the United States. Its long-standing tradition of academic excellence continues to make it one of the most prestigious institutions worldwide.
- The College of William & Mary (1693) in Williamsburg, Virginia, comes next. It is the second oldest educational institution in the United States and has a rich heritage of fostering leaders and innovators.
- Yale University (1701) in New Haven, Connecticut, ranks third. Known for its rigorous academic programmes and influential alums, Yale has been a cornerstone of American higher education for centuries.