Sorbonne

Since the 13th century, the name of the Sorbonne has conjured up for the whole world the image of one of the most prestigious centers of intelligence and culture, of science and of the arts, of an age-old knowledge that spans the centuries and one that resounds to this day with the promise of excellence.

Eight centuries after its foundation, the Vieille Dame (“Old Lady”) remains the prestigious symbol of the spirit of a whole nation and of the history that made France what it is today. After being rebuilt during the Third Republic (1870-1940) as a temple of knowledge in the glory of the educational system of the Republic, the Sorbonne has become the symbol of all French universities and academies.

Housing the Rectorat d’Académie (education authority of Paris) and the chancelleries des Universités de Paris, it is also home today to several internationally-renowned higher education institutions, as well as university research centers that are on the frontline in many domains.

Group tours (from 10 to 30 people) are regularly organized to allow visitors to discover the richness of Sorbonne’s heritage. Visits lasting one and a half hours on average take place by appointment from Monday to Friday and on one Saturday per month. More about the history of this amazing institution. More about the visits to the Sorbonne.