About

Its origins can be traced back to the 12th century when it was founded as a theological school. Over the centuries, it expanded to include various disciplines and faculties, becoming a leading center of intellectual and academic excellence. Throughout its existence, the University of Paris played a significant role in shaping European education and producing influential scholars and thinkers. It was instrumental in the development and spread of scholasticism, a dominant philosophical and theological movement of the Middle Ages. The university also established itself as a prominent hub for legal studies, making important contributions to the field of law. The institution's reputation attracted students and faculty from across Europe and led to the establishment of numerous colleges, known as "collèges," which were affiliated with the university. Notable figures associated with the University of Paris include Thomas Aquinas, Rene Descartes, Jean-Paul Sartre, and Simone de Beauvoir. However, the history of the University of Paris is not without controversies. It experienced bouts of academic and religious conflicts, particularly during the Protestants' Reformation and the French Revolution. These conflicts often led to the expulsion of certain faculties and the temporary closure of the university. In 1970, the University of Paris was reorganized into thirteen autonomous institutions, collectively known as the "Successor Universities of Paris. " This restructuring aimed to address the challenges and diversify higher education in France. Today, some of these successor institutions, including Sorbonne University, Panthéon-Sorbonne University, and Paris-Sorbonne University, carry the legacy of the original University of Paris. Overall, the University of Paris has left an indelible mark on the history of education and scholarship. Its influence and renowned reputation continue to shape the academic landscape well beyond its physical existence.