About
The University of Salamanca sits in the historic heart of Salamanca, in the Castile and León region of Spain. Founded in 1218, it is one of the oldest universities in Europe, and it is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site. For many visitors, the university is the reason to come to this city, though its buildings and courtyards reward anyone with an interest in learning, architecture or history.
What to see
- The façade: The entrance is celebrated for its Plateresque style, a richly ornamented decoration that is worth taking time over, since much of its detail is in the stone itself.
- The frog carving: Look closely at the façade to find the small frog carved on the entrance. Visitors often search for it, and it is one of the most talked-about details of the building.
- The historic academic halls: The interior halls reflect the long life of the institution and give a sense of the teaching spaces used across the centuries.
- The library: The library is one of the highlights for many visitors, offering a glimpse of the university's collections and its scholarly heritage.
- The courtyards: Walking through the courtyards, you pass through spaces where scholars have studied for more than 800 years.
Planning a visit
The university is best appreciated at an unhurried pace, allowing time to move between the façade, the halls and the courtyards. Because the buildings are central, they fit easily into a walk around the old town, and the surrounding streets offer further historic architecture and places to eat and rest. Check with the university before you go for current visiting arrangements, as access to particular spaces can vary.
