National and Kapodistrian University of Athens

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National and Kapodistrian University of Athens
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Caption	N/A
Motto	N/A
Established	1837
Type	Public
Principal	N/A
City	Athens
State	N/A
Country	Greece
Campus	N/A
Website	www.uoa.gr

The National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA), commonly referred to as the University of Athens, is a prestigious public university located in Athens, Greece. Established in 1837, it is the oldest higher education institution in the modern Greek state and has played a significant role in the academic and cultural life of Greece.

History

The University of Athens was founded on May 3, 1837, by King Otto of Greece. It was initially housed in the residence of architect Stamatios Kleanthis, located on the north-east side of the Acropolis. The university was originally composed of four faculties: Theology, Law, Medicine, and Arts (which included applied sciences and mathematics). It was the first university in the newly established Greek state and the Balkans and the Eastern Mediterranean in general.

In 1841, the university moved to a new building, designed by Danish architect Christian Hansen, which is now known as the "Old University". The university was later relocated to its current location in the Ilissia area of Athens.

Academic Structure

The National and Kapodistrian University of Athens is organized into several faculties and schools, each offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. The main faculties include:

• Faculty of Theology
• Faculty of Law
• Faculty of Medicine
• Faculty of Philosophy
• Faculty of Science
• Faculty of Economics and Political Sciences

Each faculty is further divided into departments, which focus on specific areas of study and research.

Research and Innovation

The University of Athens is renowned for its research output and innovation. It hosts numerous research centers and institutes that contribute to advancements in various fields, including medicine, natural sciences, humanities, and social sciences. The university collaborates with international institutions and participates in numerous European and global research projects.

Campus and Facilities

The main campus of the University of Athens is located in the Ilissia area, with additional facilities spread throughout the city. The university boasts a comprehensive library system, state-of-the-art laboratories, and modern lecture halls. The central library, known as the "Kostis Palamas" building, is one of the largest in Greece and serves as a vital resource for students and researchers.

Notable Alumni

The University of Athens has produced many notable alumni who have made significant contributions to various fields. Some of these include:

• Constantine Karamanlis, former Prime Minister and President of Greece
• George Papandreou, former Prime Minister of Greece
• Eleftherios Venizelos, prominent Greek statesman
• Odysseas Elytis, Nobel Prize-winning poet

Also see

• Education in Greece
• List of universities in Greece
• Athens
• Greek War of Independence

References

• Official website of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens
• Wikipedia article on the University of Athens