University of Naples "L'Orientale"

The University of Naples "L'Orientale" (Italian: Università degli Studi di Napoli "L'Orientale") is a university located in Naples, Italy.

The University of Naples "L'Orientale" was founded in 1732 by Matteo Ripa, a lay priest and missionary who had lived for many years in China. Ripa's goal was to create a school where young people could learn about Chinese language and culture, in order to better serve as missionaries and diplomats to China.

The original school was known as the Chinese College, and it was located in a building complex that had been previously used as a monastery and church. The College admitted both Chinese students and European students, and it offered instruction in Chinese language, culture, and religion.

In the early 19th century, the Chinese College was expanded to include instruction in other Asian languages, such as Japanese, Korean, and Persian. The school was also renamed the Royal Asian College, in recognition of its expanded focus.

After the unification of Italy in 1861, the Royal Asian College was renamed the University of Naples "L'Orientale." The university continued to expand its curriculum, and it began to offer instruction in a wide range of Asian, African, and American languages and cultures.

Today, the University of Naples "L'Orientale" is one of the leading universities in the world for the study of non-European languages and cultures.

The university is also home to a number of research centers and institutes, including the Italian Institute for Africa and the Mediterranean, the Institute of Chinese Studies, and the Institute of Japanese Studies.

The University of Naples "L'Orientale" has a long and distinguished history of excellence in teaching and research. It is a great choice for students interested in studying non-European languages and cultures.