University of Bologna

University of Bologna (Alma Mater Studiorum - Università di Bologna or UniBo) is a public research university in Bologna, Italy.

The history of the University of Bologna can be traced back to the 11th century, when a group of students from across Europe began to gather in the city to study law. The university was formally established in 1088, and it quickly became one of the most prestigious universities in Europe.

The university was initially focused on the study of law, but it soon expanded to other fields, such as medicine, theology, and the arts. The university was also one of the first universities to introduce the concept of the doctorate degree.

The University of Bologna played a major role in the development of Western culture. Many of the most famous scholars and thinkers of the Middle Ages and Renaissance studied at Bologna, including Dante Alighieri, Nicolaus Copernicus, and Umberto Eco.

The university has also had a significant impact on the development of Italian law and government. Many of the most important Italian lawyers and politicians have studied at Bologna, and the university's legal faculty has played a key role in shaping Italian law.

The University of Bologna has faced many challenges over the centuries, but it has always remained a leading institution of higher education. The university was closed for several periods during the Middle Ages, but it always reopened and continued to attract students from all over Europe.

In the 19th century, the university was reorganized and modernized. The university's curriculum was expanded to include new fields of study, and new buildings and facilities were constructed.

The University of Bologna is a living testament to the power of education and knowledge. It is a place where students from all over the world come to learn and grow. The university's history is a testament to its resilience and its commitment to excellence.

Based on the QS World University Rankings of 2025, University of Bologna is positioned as the #133 top university in the world, which makes it the #3 top university in Italy. The university's global rank is improved by 21 points from last year.