History

Utrecht University was founded in 1636. Discover more about our rich history:

History of Utrecht University

Dies Natalis 1906

Including the 7th-century seminary of Saint Willibrord, the ‘Illustre School’ of 1634, the Dies Natalis of Utrecht University (26 March 1636), the first female student (Anna Maria van Schurman, 1607-1678), the first female professor (Johanna Westerdijk, appointed in 1916), the imminent closure in the 19th century and expansion in the 20th century.

> History of Utrecht University

History of the Humanities buildings

Several buildings still contain traces of their medieval origins. In the interiors and on the facades, many style elements have been preserved from later centuries, ranging from Renaissance to Art Nouveau. The University Library City Centre was built during the French occupation as a palace for King Louis Napoleon.

> More information about our buildings

History of Utrecht University Hall

The oldest part of the University Hall (the Auditorium) was completed in 1462. It was here that the Treaty of Utrecht was signed in 1579. In 1886 the University became the owner of the building: it was a gift from the citizens and the province of Utrecht on the occasion of the University’s 250th birthday. Of special (art) historical interest is the professors portrait series in the Senaatszaal.

> History of Utrecht University Hall

Catalogus Professorum

Senaatszaal in het Academiegebouw

All professors since 1636.

Blog: Dorsman Dives into University History

Out of the thousands of people who study and work at Utrecht University, fewer and fewer know anything about the history of this institution. We can do better than that. Leen Dorsman was a Professor of University History until 1 August 2022. Each month in Dorsman Dives into University History, he describes something from the university’s long history that you would want to know or should know. 

    • ‘A decent meal’: eating culture at Utrecht University

      News
      Every month, Emeritus Professor of University History Leen Dorsman describes something you must know about Utrecht University’s long history. This time: wining and dining at Utrecht University.
    • Disaster due to cuts at university

      Background
      Every month, Emeritus Professor of University History Leen Dorsman describes something you must know about the long history of Utrecht University. This time: historical budget cuts.
    • Student Housing: from lodging hosts to student villages

      Background
      Every month, Emeritus Professor of University History Leen Dorsman describes something you must know about the long history of Utrecht University. This time: student housing.
    • Utrecht sings: from Crambambuli to inimitable university song

      Background
      Every month, Emeritus Professor of University History Leen Dorsman describes something you must know about Utrecht University’s long history. This time: the singing culture of students.
    • "How is the University Community doing?"

      Background
      Every month, Emeritus Professor of University History Leen Dorsman describes something you must know about the long history of Utrecht University. This time: the university community.
    • Dead and buried: funeral rituals at the university

      Background
      Every month, Emeritus Professor of University History Leen Dorsman describes something you must know about Utrecht University’s long history. This time: rituals surrounding bereavement.
    • Rumble in the joint: uproar in casa academica

      Background
      Every month, Emeritus Professor of University History Leen Dorsman describes something you must know about Utrecht University’s long history. This time: fights and feuds.
    • Money talks

      Background
      Every month, Emeritus Professor of University History Leen Dorsman describes something you must know about Utrecht University’s long history. This time: professors’ salaries.
    • Centuries of academic activism: “To arms!”

      Background
      Every month, Emeritus Professor of University History Leen Dorsman describes something you must know about Utrecht University’s long history. This time: activism in academics.
    • Donders: the legend of a vain man

      Background
      Every month, Emeritus Professor of University History Leen Dorsman describes something you must know about Utrecht University’s long history. This time: the legendary Professor Donders.
    • The University Library: not always warm and accessible

      Background
      Every month, Emeritus Professor of University History Leen Dorsman describes something you must know about Utrecht University’s long history. This time: the University Library.
    • Hazing: from beast to man or vice versa

      Background
      Every month, Emeritus Professor of University History Leen Dorsman describes something you must know about Utrecht University's long history. This time: the hazing.
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