Jagiellonian University

Welcome to the famous Jagiellonian University. You’re surrounded by the neo-Gothic buildings of the Collegium Novum—the “New College,” as opposed to the Collegium Maius, the oldest part of the university. Founded in 1364, it’s one of the oldest universities in Europe. Today, the Collegium Maius houses a museum, historical archives, and the university library. Inside, you’ll find remarkable academic collections, including a display of scientific instruments. One of the standout pieces is a globe from 1508, that shows America for the first time. The university was founded in the 14th century by King Casimir the Great, who received papal permission to build a university in Kraków—the capital of Poland at the time. At first, the university was only allowed to have three faculties: liberal arts, law, and medicine. The Pope refused to allow a theology faculty, which at the time was considered the highest academic discipline. Queen Jadwiga of Poland later persuaded Pope Boniface IX to authorise a theology faculty. She even left a large part of her fortune to the university in her will. Fun fact: she was actually officially crowned King of Poland. The 15th century marked a Golden Age for both Poland and the university, a time of great economic and cultural advancement. During this period, Copernicus studied astronomy here and began to question the geocentric view of the universe. The university quickly gained international recognition. By the 15th century, around 40% of its students came from abroad. Over the centuries, nearly all of Poland’s intellectual elite have passed through its halls. In 1939, the German authorities launched Operation Tannenberg—also known as Intelligenzaktion, which aimed at eliminating centers of intellectual and cultural leadership. The head of the Gestapo summoned the university’s rector and asked him to gather the faculty. Trusting the request, the professors assembled—only to be arrested and deported to a concentration camp. Moments like these are a powerful reminder: knowledge is power—and those who fear it, often try to silence it.