**

Introduction:

Stepping into the hallowed halls of a university is an experience steeped in history, tradition, and scholarship. But some universities boast a history stretching back centuries, even millennia, holding a unique place in the global tapestry of education. This article explores ten of the world's oldest universities, revealing their rich legacies and enduring contributions to global knowledge and intellectual development. Discover the fascinating stories behind these prestigious institutions, delving into their founding, evolution, and lasting impact on the world. We'll explore key aspects including their establishment dates, notable alumni, and continuing significance in higher education today. This deep dive into the history of higher learning will provide insights for students considering university options, history buffs, and anyone fascinated by the evolution of global education systems.

10 Oldest Universities in the World: (ranked approximately by founding date; precise dating is sometimes debated)

1. University of Al Quaraouiyine, Fes, Morocco (859 AD):

Often cited as the oldest existing and continually operating educational institution in the world, the University of Al Quaraouiyine was founded in 859 AD by Fatima al-Fihri in Fes, Morocco. Initially a mosque and public library, it evolved into a center for Islamic scholarship, attracting scholars from across the Islamic world. Its curriculum encompassed theology, law, medicine, and astronomy. The university's enduring legacy highlights the significant contributions of the Islamic Golden Age to intellectual progress.

• Key Features: Rich history of Islamic scholarship, significant contributions to religious and secular learning, preservation of ancient texts.
• Keywords: Al Quaraouiyine University, oldest university, Fes, Morocco, Islamic Golden Age, higher education history, ancient universities.

2. University of Bologna, Italy (1088 AD):

The University of Bologna, founded in 1088 AD, holds the distinction of being the oldest university in continuous operation in the Western world. Initially a collection of independent schools teaching law, its reputation grew, attracting students from across Europe. Its emphasis on legal studies significantly shaped the development of legal systems across the continent.

• Key Features: Oldest university in continuous operation in the Western world, significant contribution to legal education, global impact on legal systems.
• Keywords: University of Bologna, oldest university in Europe, Bologna, Italy, medieval universities, law school, higher education.

3. University of Oxford, England (1096 AD):

Oxford's precise founding date is debated, with some placing it as early as 1096 AD. However, its emergence as a center of learning is well-documented in the 12th century. This prestigious institution has produced numerous influential figures throughout history, and its collegiate system is unique and enduring.

• Key Features: Collegiate system, prestigious reputation, numerous notable alumni, significant contribution to literature and science.
• Keywords: University of Oxford, Oxford University, Oxford, England, oldest universities in England, prestigious universities, collegiate system.

4. University of Paris (Sorbonne University), France (1150 AD):

The University of Paris, which now includes Sorbonne University among its successor institutions, emerged from a cluster of schools around the Notre Dame Cathedral in the 12th century. A major center of scholastic learning, it played a crucial role in the development of theological and philosophical thought in the Middle Ages.

• Key Features: Center of medieval scholasticism, contributions to theology and philosophy, influence on European intellectual thought.
• Keywords: University of Paris, Sorbonne University, Paris, France, medieval universities, scholasticism, theology, philosophy.

5. University of Cambridge, England (1209 AD):

Founded in 1209 AD by scholars who migrated from Oxford, the University of Cambridge quickly established itself as a rival center of learning. Its renowned colleges, esteemed faculty, and influential alumni have cemented its place as one of the world's leading universities.

• Key Features: Rival to Oxford, renowned colleges, esteemed faculty, significant contributions to various academic fields.
• Keywords: University of Cambridge, Cambridge University, Cambridge, England, oldest universities in England, prestigious universities, rival to Oxford.

6. University of Padua, Italy (1222 AD):

The University of Padua, founded in 1222 AD, is known for its contributions to medicine and science. Its medical school was particularly influential, and it boasts a long and distinguished history of academic innovation.

• Key Features: Contributions to medicine and science, influential medical school, rich history of academic innovation.
• Keywords: University of Padua, Padua, Italy, medieval universities, medical school, science, history of science.

7. University of Salamanca, Spain (1218 AD):

The University of Salamanca, founded around 1218 AD, is one of the oldest universities in Spain and has played a significant role in Spanish intellectual and cultural history. Its historical buildings and impressive library are testaments to its long and rich history.

• Key Features: Rich Spanish history, important historical buildings, significant role in Spanish intellectual history.
• Keywords: University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain, oldest universities in Spain, historical universities, Spanish history.

8. University of Naples Federico II, Italy (1224 AD):

Founded by Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II in 1224 AD, the University of Naples Federico II is known for its early focus on secular studies, including law, medicine, and astronomy, making it a pioneer in non-religious higher education.

• Key Features: Early focus on secular studies, pioneering non-religious higher education, significant contributions to various fields.
• Keywords: University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy, medieval universities, secular education, history of education.

9. University of Coimbra, Portugal (1290 AD):

Founded in 1290 AD, the University of Coimbra has a rich and complex history, moving between several locations before settling in its current home in Coimbra, Portugal. It is renowned for its historical architecture and its contributions to Portuguese education and culture.

• Key Features: Rich and complex history, historical architecture, significant contributions to Portuguese education and culture.
• Keywords: University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal, oldest universities in Portugal, historical universities, Portuguese history.

10. Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic (1348 AD):

Founded in 1348 AD by Charles IV, Charles University in Prague holds the distinction of being the oldest university in Central Europe. It played a crucial role in developing scholarship and education in the region.

• Key Features: Oldest university in Central Europe, pivotal role in Central European education and scholarship.
• Keywords: Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic, oldest universities in Central Europe, Central European history, higher education history.

Conclusion:

These ten universities represent a remarkable tapestry of global scholarship and intellectual achievement. Their enduring presence underscores the power of education to transcend time and contribute to the advancement of knowledge and human understanding. Studying their histories provides invaluable insights into the evolution of higher education and the ongoing pursuit of knowledge across centuries. The legacies of these institutions continue to inspire generations of students and scholars worldwide.