National University of Athens, Athens

The oldest university in Southeast Europe, established by Royal Decree on April 22, 1837, originally bore the name "Othonian University" in honor of its founder, Otto of Bavaria, who became the first king of modern Greece. Subsequently, in 1862, the university was renamed the "National University" after King Otto was compelled to leave the country. Since the 19th century, it has been housed in the central building of a magnificent neoclassical trilogy created by Danish architects Theophil and Christian Hansen.

This architectural marvel strikes a balance between grandeur and simplicity, designed to harmonize with the Mediterranean climate of Athens. It consists of two symmetrical wings, separated by an entrance in the Ionian style, featuring columns and capitals reminiscent of those found in the Propylaea temple on the Acropolis. Flanking the columns are statues that exude grandeur, in keeping with the overall aesthetic of the structure.

Upon its inauguration, the University encompassed four Schools: Theology, Law, Medicine, and the School of "Philosophy and Other Fundamental Studies", which included applied sciences and mathematics. In its inaugural year, the institution had 33 professors, with courses attended by 52 students and 75 non-matriculated "auditors".