University of Paris Facts for Kids

Quick facts for kids
University of Paris
Université de Paris

Latin: Universitas magistrorum et scholarium Parisiensis
Motto	Hic et ubique terrarum (Latin)
Motto in English	Here and anywhere on Earth
Type	Corporative from c. 1150 to 1793 and public from 1896 to 1970
Active	Circa 1150 – 1793, 1896–1970 (1970)
Location	Paris , France
Campus	Urban

The University of Paris (called Université de Paris in French) was a very famous university located in Paris, France. It was one of the very first universities ever started in Europe, beginning in the mid-1100s. Many people also called it the Sorbonne or la Sorbonne. This name came from a college called Collège de Sorbonne, which was started around 1257 by a person named Robert de Sorbon.

In 1971, the University of Paris was divided into thirteen separate universities.

A Look at Its History
Famous People Who Studied Here
Images for kids
See also

A Look at Its History

How the University Began

The University of Paris started around the year 1150. It grew from different church schools in Paris. At first, it was like a group or "guild" of teachers and students. They worked together to learn and teach. This was a new way for people to get an education.

The Sorbonne's Special Role

The name "Sorbonne" became very well known. This was because of the Collège de Sorbonne. It was a special college founded in 1257. It helped students who were studying theology, which is the study of religion. Over time, the name Sorbonne was often used for the whole University of Paris.

Changes Over Time

The university was closed for a while in 1793. This happened during the French Revolution. It reopened later in 1896 as a public university. This meant it was run by the government. It continued to be a major center for learning.

The University Splits Up

In 1971, the large University of Paris was split. It became thirteen different, independent universities. These new universities still carry on the tradition of learning in Paris. They are spread across the city.

Famous People Who Studied Here

Many important people studied or taught at the University of Paris. These include thinkers, writers, and scientists. They made big contributions to the world.