The University of Santiago de Compostela has been the cornerstone of the city's and the autonomous region's education for more than 500 years. Its foundation goes back to 1495, the date when Lope de Marzoa opened the so-called “Estudio Viejo” (Old Study) or “Estudio de Gramática” (Grammar Study) in the Monastery of San Paio de Antealtares. After merging with the Colegio de Santiago Alfeo, founded by Archbishop Fonseca, its first statutes were approved in 1555.

Since then, the University –which originally consisted of the chairs of Art and Theology- has extended its educational field to the more than 180 degrees that are currently imparted in 41 faculties, schools and institutionslocated throughout the campuses of Santiago and Lugo.

The USC's facilities –which also include research institutes, university residences, sports grounds, cultural venues and libraries, among other buildings- now occupy an area of 1,300,000 square metres and house 25,500 students, more than 2,000 lecturers and researchers, and 1,000 employees.

The University is also active as a cultural programmer, organising around a hundred annual events featuring exhibitions, theatre, dance and cinema.

Image gallery

The University of Santiago