The University of Glasgow

Founded in 1451, the University of Glasgow has gained reputation across the world as one of the finest educational institutions in Scotland. A papal bull issued by Pope Nicholas V is responsible for the creation of the University of Glasgow. Pope Nicholas was "inspired" behind-the-scenes at the time by King James II. The king had a strong desire to build schools in Scotland that would rivals those of England, mainly Oxford and Cambridge.

With the creation of the University of Glasgow, Scotland then had two universities to help King James II with his plan. The second, the University of St. Andrews, was founded in 1410. A third school, the University of Abderdeen, brought King James II's plan to completion.

The Scottish Reformation, which took place in the 16th century, brought along some turmoil and strife for the University of Glasgow. Its papal bull was removed from the school's archives by Archbishop James Beaton as he left Scotland to hide in France. The bull was never returned but, in 1690, was allegedly spotted at Scots College in Paris.

The University of Glasgow is not only one of the largest universities in the world but it is also the fourth oldest. Since it's creation it has remained as a center of teaching and excellent research throughout the region. The central campus of the University of Glasgow is located in the western end of the city. There are a large number of buildings spread throughout Glasgow that also make up the University. You can find more facilities in Loch Lomond as well as Dumfries, which is home to the Crichton Campus.

If you're ever visiting Glasgow and have an interest in history or architecture make sure you set aside some time to visit the main campus of the University of Glasgow as well as the various satellite buildings spread around the city.

Want to learn more about the University of Glasgow? You can learn more about the school and Glasgow by going to Visit Glasgow Scotland online at http://www.visitglasgowscotland.com