La Sorbonne - Université

In 1253, a college for 16 poor students who wanted to study theology was created at Louis IX's request. It became the Sorbonne as Robert de Sorbon, the king's confessor, gave his name to the school. After 1885, it became the most important university in France; and, nowadays, it is still one of the most important universities in Paris. The Sorbonne Church was built by Jacques Lemercier according to the will of Richelieu between 1635 and 1642. In the church, you can admire his grave, carved by François Girardon in 1694. The dome was painted by the famous painter Philippe de Champaigne.

Did you know?
The Sorbonne University, famous for its academic prestige, was the place where Pierre de Coubertin proposed the reinstatement of the Olympic Games at a sports festival in 1892, and where a congress in 1894 put the idea into practice, giving rise to the first modern Olympic Games in Athens in 1896.

Opening times and prices

Guided tours for individuals: two Wednesdays and one Saturday each month at 10.30am and/or 2.30pm. Reservation is obligatory - contact [email protected]. Tours are between €7 and €15 per person. Certain visitors may have free access if they meet the necessary conditions.

Guided tours for complete groups: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 10.30am or 2.30pm. Reservation is obligatory - contact [email protected]. Tours are between €7 and €15 per person. Certain visitors may have free access if they meet the necessary conditions.

The Sorbonne can be visited in guided tours for complete groups and individuals. It can be freely visited on European Heritage Days.

Services

• Shop/bookshop

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Useful information