Sapienza University of Rome

Sapienza University of Rome Overview

The Sapienza University of Rome, known simply as Sapienza, stands as a distinguished public research institution located in Rome, Italy. With roots tracing back to its founding in 1303 under the papal bull "In Supremae praeminentia Dignitatis" by Pope Boniface VIII, it is celebrated as one of the oldest universities in history. The university's mission is anchored in contributing to a knowledge-based society through research, quality education, excellence, and international collaboration.

Sapienza boasts a rich history, initially organized for ecclesiastical studies, but soon diversified into the four schools of Law, Medicine, Philosophy, and Theology by Pope Eugene IV in 1431. Despite facing challenges like closure during the sack of Rome in 1527, the university was restored by Pope Paul III in 1534. In the 1650s, it adopted the name "Sapienza," signifying wisdom. The university's legacy endured transformations, relocating its main campus to Città Universitaria near Roma Tiburtina Station, designed by Marcello Piacentini and inaugurated in 1935.

Sapienza's academic structure comprises eleven faculties, 65 departments, and a School for Advanced Studies. Its commitment to education spans 300 degree programs, including over 60 taught in English, 200 Advanced Professional Courses, and more than 90 PhDs. The institution's comprehensive service network includes libraries, museums, orientation offices, disabled students' support, placement services, and the vibrant SapienzaSport Centre, offering diverse cultural, sports, and artistic experiences for students.

Notably, Sapienza maintains a strong international presence, with around 30,000 students from other Italian cities and nearly 10,000 international students. This global engagement is fostered through a wide array of agreements with institutions worldwide, facilitating student mobility, double degrees, scholarships, internships, and international PhDs.

Sapienza stands as a powerhouse in research, spanning various domains such as archaeology, physics, humanities, cultural heritage, nanotechnologies, and more. Its illustrious faculty includes Nobel Prize winners and renowned scholars. The university is organized into 11 faculties, 57 departments, and numerous research and service centers.

In terms of recognition, Sapienza consistently ranks highly in international university rankings, reflecting its academic prowess. It has been lauded for its quality of research, education, and international influence, consistently occupying a prominent position both nationally and globally.

Embracing sustainability, Sapienza aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through its education, research, outreach, and policies. The institution annually publishes a Sustainability Report to showcase its contributions to the community and internal organization.

The symbol of Sapienza is the Cherub, emblematic of its commitment to knowledge. With the motto "Il futuro è passato qui," meaning "The future has passed here," Sapienza continues to shape future generations through its rich history and steadfast commitment to excellence in education and research.