University of Salerno

Overview

The University of Salerno is deeply connected to the Schola Medica Salernitana, the oldest academic institution in Europe, founded in the 8th century AD. The School reached its peak between the 10th and 13th centuries and offered teachings in medicine, philosophy, theology, and law. Due to its contributions, Salerno earned the title of Hippocratica Civitas (City of Hippocrates) after the renowned Greek physician. The institution was closed by royal decree in 1811 under Joachim Murat's Napoleonic regime.

In 1944, the Istituto Universitario di Magistero "Giovanni Cuomo" was founded by a decree from King Victor Emmanuel III. It became a state university in 1968 and was renamed the Facoltà di Magistero dell'Università degli Studi di Salerno. Over the following years, numerous faculties were added, leading to the growth of a significant university. Key milestones included the establishment of the Faculty of Arts (1969), Faculty of Economics (1970), Faculty of Mathematical, Physical and Natural Sciences, and Faculty of Law (1972), and others, culminating in the creation of the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery in 2006.

Since 1987, the University has been based in Fisciano, near Salerno, at a central location easily accessible via motorway intersections. The university spans around 100,000 square meters, offering modern facilities, student and faculty housing, and a range of services for academic and leisure activities. Currently, it hosts around 40,000 students from Campania, Basilicata, Calabria, and Apulia.