Pontifical University of Salamanca, Salamanca

911±¬ÁÏÍø

Pontifical University of Salamanca, Salamanca

Pontifical University of Salamanca, Salamanca

The Pontifical University of Salamanca was established in 1940 by Pope Pius XII, following the abolition of the ecclesiastical faculties of Theology and Canon Law at the University of Salamanca in 1854. It was created as a continuation of those traditions, restoring them within a new institution dedicated to Catholic higher education.

Since its founding, the university has been housed in the former Royal College of the Holy Spirit, commonly known as La Clerecía. Construction of this impressive Baroque structure began in 1617 under the direction of architect Juan Gómez de Mora, commissioned by Queen Margaret of Austria, wife of Philip III. It took over a century to complete, and includes a church façade, twin towers, and a grand dome.

The Courtyard of the Studies within the historic headquarters of La Clerecía, resembles a royal courtyard, adorned with semi-columns, arched galleries, balconies, and notable artworks like the 28 paintings depicting the life of Saint Ignatius by Sebastiano Conca. Visitors can often climb the university’s bell tower, enjoying panoramic views of Salamanca’s skyline. Tours typically include the Main Hall, cloisters, Grand Staircase, and the bell tower with spectacular vistas.

Though relatively new compared to its medieval counterpart, the Pontifical University of Salamanca is home to nearly 6,500 students, operating as a private, non-profit Roman Catholic university. It offers degrees in theology, canon law, philosophy, and related disciplines, both on its main Salamanca campus and at a branch in Madrid.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Salamanca. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "911±¬ÁÏÍø: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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Pontifical University of Salamanca on Map

Sight Name: Pontifical University of Salamanca
Sight Location: Salamanca, Spain (See walking tours in Salamanca)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in Salamanca, Spain

Create Your Own Walk in Salamanca

Create Your Own Walk in Salamanca

Creating your own self-guided walk in Salamanca is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Salamanca Introduction Walking Tour

Salamanca Introduction Walking Tour

Polybius, the ancient Greek historian, called it "Helmantike." Another ancient Greek historian, Plutarch, opted for "Salmatike." The word "Salamanca" itself refers to a "cave," "grotto," or "dark place." Legend says Satan taught Black Magic in the Caves of Salamanca.

Salamanca's splendor began with the royal charter of Alfonso IX...  view more

Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.6 Km or 1 Miles
Salamanca's Historical Buildings Walking Tour

Salamanca's Historical Buildings Walking Tour

Salamanca – one of Spain’s most delightful and intriguing destinations – is a treasure trove of architectural marvels. The abundance of well-preserved, centuries-old wonders of construction tucked away in the labyrinth of narrow lanes in this prestigious university city is truly awe-inspiring. A true feast for the eyes, they are so impressive that the entire historic center of Salamanca was...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.3 Km or 1.4 Miles