University of Iceland, Reykjavik

The University of Iceland, located in Reykjavík, is the oldest and largest public research institution in the country. Established in 1911, it has evolved significantly over the years, transforming from a small civil servants' school into a modern comprehensive university. Currently, it serves approximately 14,000 students across 25 different faculties, covering a wide range of subjects, including social sciences, humanities, medicine, natural sciences, engineering, and teacher education. The university's main campus is situated along Suðurgata street in central Reykjavík, with additional facilities in nearby areas and rural settings.

The university's origins trace back to June 17, 1911, when it was founded by the National Parliament of Iceland (Alþingi). This establishment brought together three former post-secondary institutions: Theology (Prestaskólinn), Medicine (Læknaskólinn), and law (Lagaskólinn). Initially, the university focused on these three fields, along with a faculty dedicated to humanities. In its inaugural year, the university enrolled 45 students. For nearly three decades, it operated out of the Icelandic Parliament building (Alþingishúsið) in central Reykjavík.

In 1933, the university obtained a special license from the National Parliament of Iceland to run a cash-prize lottery (Happdrætti Háskólans). In 1940, the university relocated to its current main building, designed by Icelandic state architect Guðjón Samúelsson. This main building now serves as the central hub of the university campus on Suðurgata, housing many of its key facilities. In recent times, the university has undergone significant restructuring, culminating in its division into five distinct schools in 2008.