Hungary’s first university was founded 657 years ago – Here are the country’s oldest universities

The University of Pécs, Hungary’s first university, is celebrating its 657th anniversary. To mark this special occasion, we have gathered some information about the country’s most historic universities.

Hungary’s first university

The University of Pécs, established in 1367, proudly holds the title of Hungary’s first university and is recognised as a distinguished institution of higher education in Europe. Founded during the reign of King Louis I of Hungary, Hungary’s first university was established out of a growing desire to promote higher education within the kingdom, following the model of the great medieval universities of Europe. At that time, some Hungarian students could not afford the time to travel abroad to study at esteemed institutions in other countries, so having a university within the country proved to be highly beneficial.

Located in the culturally rich city of Pécs, the university initially offered courses in church law and Latin, reflecting the educational priorities of the era. Despite periods of disruption, including closure during the Ottoman occupation, the university has endured. The University of Pécs has evolved into a modern centre of academic excellence while continuing to honour its medieval roots.

However, it is interesting to note that the official legal predecessor of today’s University of Pécs was not the medieval institution itself but the Royal Hungarian Elizabeth University of Bratislava, founded in 1912. Hungary’s first university continues to contribute significantly to the intellectual and cultural life of the nation. It is highly popular among both Hungarian and international students from all around the world.