When people think about the Oldest university, names like Oxford or Cambridge often come to mind. But the title of the oldest existing, continually operating university in the world actually belongs to the University of al-Qarawiyyin in Fez, Morocco.
Top 10 Oldest University in the World
| Rank | University | Founded Year & Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of al-Qarawiyyin | 859 AD – Fez, Morocco |
| 2 | University of Bologna | 1088 AD – Bologna, Italy |
| 3 | University of Oxford | c. 1096 AD – Oxford, England |
| 4 | University of Paris (Sorbonne) | c. 1150 AD – Paris, France |
| 5 | University of Salamanca | 1134 AD – Salamanca, Spain |
| 6 | University of Cambridge | 1209 AD – Cambridge, England |
| 7 | University of Padua | 1222 AD – Padua, Italy |
| 8 | University of Naples Federico II | 1224 AD – Naples, Italy |
| 9 | University of Coimbra | 1290 AD – Coimbra, Portugal |
| 10 | University of Al-Azhar | 970–972 AD – Cairo, Egypt |
A Quick Overview
- Name: University of al-Qarawiyyin (also spelled Al-Karaouine)
- Founded: 859 AD
- Founder: Fatima al-Fihri
- Location: Fez, Morocco
- UNESCO Recognition: Oldest existing educational institution in the world
- Type: Public university (originally a madrasa – Islamic school)
History of the University of al-Qarawiyyin
The University of al-Qarawiyyin was founded in 859 AD by Fatima al-Fihri, a wealthy and highly educated woman. Originally, it was built as a mosque and later expanded into a leading educational center in the Muslim world.
In the medieval period, it attracted scholars and students from across Africa, the Middle East, and even Europe. Its curriculum covered religious sciences, mathematics, astronomy, philosophy, grammar, and medicine.
Why It’s Recognized as the Oldest University
- Continuous Operation: Unlike other ancient schools, al-Qarawiyyin has been in continuous operation since its founding.
- Degree-Granting Status: UNESCO and Guinness World Records recognize it as the oldest existing and continually operating degree-granting institution in the world.
- Influence on Other Universities: It inspired educational systems in Europe during the Middle Ages.
Notable Facts
- Founded by a Woman: Fatima al-Fihri is celebrated as one of history’s most influential women in education.
- World Heritage Site: Located in Fez’s historic medina, it’s part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Still Operational: Today, it’s a modern Moroccan public university, offering programs in Islamic studies, law, and sciences.
Comparison with Other Old Universities
While al-Qarawiyyin holds the title, here are other ancient universities worth noting:
| University | Founded | Location |
|---|---|---|
| University of al-Qarawiyyin | 859 AD | Morocco |
| University of Bologna | 1088 AD | Italy |
| University of Oxford | ~1096 AD | England |
| University of Paris (Sorbonne) | 1150 AD | France |
The University of al-Qarawiyyin continues to blend tradition and modern education. It remains a center of Islamic scholarship while integrating modern subjects, making it a living link between the ancient and the contemporary world.
People Also Ask
1. What is the oldest university in the world?
The University of al-Qarawiyyin in Morocco, founded in 859 AD, is recognized as the oldest existing, continually operating degree-granting university.
2. Who founded the oldest university?
It was founded by Fatima al-Fihri, a wealthy and educated woman from a merchant family.
3. Is Oxford the oldest university?
No. Oxford University is one of the oldest in Europe (founded around 1096 AD), but al-Qarawiyyin in Morocco is older.
4. Can you visit the University of al-Qarawiyyin?
Yes, visitors can explore parts of the campus and the historic mosque, although certain areas are restricted.