La Sorbonne
By Sascha Renjifo
The Gate of knowledge
• La Sorbonne is a University located in
Paris, it was built in 1257 by Robert de
Sorbon, Louis IX’s confessor. Its original
name was “Collegium pauperum
magistrorum in theologica facultate” but
since 1554 it has been known as “La
Sorbonne”.
• Robert de Sorbon (1201-1274)
was a poor chaplain who became a
theologist. He dedicated himself to
spreading knowledge to his
students. To do so he asked the
King Louis IX for a building and
supplies. The king granted him a
house in “le Quartier latin” and in
1257 the school opened. It was
originally a theological school for
poor students. But it soon became
popular among Christians for its excellent theological
studies.
• In 1469, the university printed its works on text books
that were available to the students.
• The university remained closed during the
French Revolution as all ecclesiastical
establishments. Napoléon I, in control of
France gave La Sorbonne to the Paris
University in 1808.
Interesting Facts
• La Sorbonne has one of the largest library’s in
France, with more than 1.2 million books.
• Between 1626 to 1642, almost all of the
original building had been reconstructed by
Jacques Lemercier under the orders of
Richelieu. Today the building has been fully
renovated and none of the original building
remains.
Interesting Facts
Recents Strikes have taken
place on the streets off the
Latin Quarter, where La
Sorbonne lays.
Conclusion
• La Sorbonne is one of the best universities
in the world.
• It is mostly known as a philosophy school.
• It is a French symbol of education.
• The French are feel proud to have such a
wonderful university.
Sources
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http://www.insecula.com
http://fr.wikipedia.org
http://www.boston.com
http://www.lexpress.fr
http://www.paris4.sorbonne.fr
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