UNITO - Universita Degli Studi Di Torino
The University of Turin, or UNITO, stands as a distinguished institution with a rich history spanning over six centuries. Founded in 1404 by a papal Bull issued by Pope Benedict XIII, UNITO has evolved into one of the most ancient and prestigious universities in Italy. Its inception was facilitated by Prince Ludovico of Savoia-Acaja’s vision to establish a centre of learning at a strategic crossroads between the Alps, Liguria, and Lombardy.
UNITO’s early years were marked by challenges, including epidemics and administrative upheavals, yet it persevered, relocating several times before returning to Turin in 1436. Notably, in 1506, Erasmus of Rotterdam obtained his degree from UNITO, attracting scholars from across Europe seeking quality education.
The university underwent significant reforms in the 18th century under the patronage of Vittorio Amedeo II, culminating in the inauguration of a prestigious new building in via Po in 1720. These reforms aimed to create a well-trained ruling class and elevate cultural and linguistic standards within the Duchy.
Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, UNITO experienced substantial growth and became a bastion of Italian positivism and antifascism. Renowned figures such as Cesare Lombroso, Antonio Gramsci, and Rita Levi Montalcini emerged from its halls, shaping Italian political, social, and cultural discourse. Additionally, three Nobel Prize winners in Medicine and two Italian Republic Presidents are among its distinguished alumni.
Today, UNITO continues its tradition of academic excellence and innovation, offering a wide array of courses across various fields of knowledge. With nearly 80,000 students and 120 buildings spread throughout Turin and Piedmont, UNITO serves as a vibrant “city-within-a-city,” promoting culture, research, and social integration. Its research centres in medical diagnostics, biosensoristics, and nanotechnologies rank among the best in Italy, reflecting its commitment to cutting-edge scholarship.
UNITO’s libraries, museums, and media units enrich its academic environment, fostering intellectual exploration and cultural engagement. Moreover, the university actively engages in social issues and international partnerships, demonstrating its dedication to societal progress and global collaboration.
As UNITO looks to the future under the leadership of Professor Stefano Geuna, it remains dedicated to its mission of advancing knowledge, fostering innovation, and empowering future generations to confront the challenges of tomorrow.