The Universidad de Salamanca is located in the pedestrian friendly old quarter, and was established in 1218 by Alfonso IX of Leon. It is Spain’s oldest university, and from the 13th century through the golden ages of the 17th century, the Universidad de Salamanca was one of Europe’s leading centres of learning.

The university has some very famous alumni, such as the philosopher Miguel de Unamuno, Saint John of the Cross and Cervantes.

The main building is the Patio de las Escuelas and is also called the Old University. It was built in 1415, but the facade was put on during the 16th century. Look around and the see the Catholic Kings, Ferdinand and Isabella, cherubs, animals and crests. Legend has it that if you find the tiny frog among the massive number of engravings, your nuptials will be had in the near future.

The main building is in an early Renaissance architectural style named, Planteresque. Patio de las Escuelas is considered the best example of Planteresque. The region is rich in an iron rich sandstone and the university buildings, and the buildings in the old quarter are built from this golden stone that glows. It is particularly beautiful at sunset. The Planteresque style is a very ornate style of Renaissance and involves engraving the stone in what appears to be very fine silver works techniques. The term Planteresque is actually taken from the Spanish word silversmith. With time, and age the stone takes on a granite like appearance and the intricate engravings are lovely to view.

Some of the lecture halls are plainer but are set up with the desks and chairs used during the medieval times. These were considered a luxury, in comparison to sitting on the floor which was common practice beforehand. The Escuelas Menores patio is a lovely place to relax, and enjoy the lawns and arches. There is value to be had in buying a combined museum entrance ticket. For a set price you can see three sights the museum at the Patio de las Escuelas, the Casa Lis (Art Nouveau and Art Deco Museum) and the Colegio Fonseca (Irish College).

On buildings you will notice the word VICTOR this tradition started in the Middle Ages when graduating students would enter the bullring and using the blood of the bull sign their name and date it. The practice is said to bring good luck to the brave one.