Sapienza University of Rome was founded in 1303 and is one of the oldest universities in the world. The main campus is located near Roma Termini station and is around a 40-minute walk from the famous Colosseum, Piazza di Spagna and Villa Borghese. The University is famed for its notable alumni which include Nobel Laureates, Presidents of the European Parliament, scientists and astronauts.
Sapienza University of Rome is known as the most prestigious school in Italy. Its majestic architecture attracts visitors and students from all over the world. There are several campuses dotted around the city, the largest covering 439,000 square metres is known as Città Universitaria or University City. The university specialises in research programmes in the fields of biomedical sciences, natural sciences, engineering and humanities. It has impressive world rankings falling into the top three percent. Main highlights to view within the campus include Villa Mirafiori, a 19th century Neo-Renaissance palace decorated with exquisite frescoes. Sant’Ivo alla Sapienza, a Roman Catholic church built by Francesco Borromini between 1642-1660. It is Roman Baroque in design and features a unique corkscrew lantern tower which can be viewed from all over campus. Visitors seeking a tranquil interlude should consider walking to Orto Botanico di Roma. Established in 1883, the botanical garden contains over 3,000 plant species which include several rare specimens. A little further afield visitors can also take in the wonders of the Roman Colosseum, Villa Borghese and the Spanish Steps.
Visitors can walk to Sapienza from Roma Termini train station on foot, as it takes around 20 minutes. Alternatively, journey by bus from the station and disembark at Università/Regina Elena stop. Buses operate from Tiburtina Train Station to Verano/DeLollis. If preferred, visitors can travel by underground on the Metro to Policlinico close to the university. Taxis, Uber and bicycle are available throughout the city.
“Sapienza” translates to the word “wisdom”. The school was founded in the early 1300s and quickly became known as the “papal university”. The study subjects of this time included Law, Medicine, Philosophy and Theology. Pope Eugene IV wanted to build a church on the site and imposed a tax on wine to raise funds, while today Sapienza is Rome’s premier university with incredible architecture, a fascinating history and a variety of study programmes.