Pontifical Lateran University

Is this what Pope John Paul II envisioned when he said, “You are therefore, in a special way, the University of the Pope”? We are standing before the Pontifical Lateran University, often called “The Pope’s University.” Established in 1773 by Pope Clement XIV, this esteemed institution holds a unique position in the Catholic world. It’s not just a center for theological study, but also houses the central session of the Pontifical John Paul II Institute for Studies on Marriage and Family. Did you know the Pontifical Lateran University is one of the few places in the world where you can earn a doctorate “Utriusque Iuris”? That means you can get a doctorate in both civil and church law! It’s a testament to the university’s commitment to both worldly knowledge and spiritual growth. While the roots of the Pontifical Lateran University are deeply intertwined with the Church, it embraces a global outlook. Students from over a hundred countries fill its hallowed halls. This makes it a vibrant hub of intercultural exchange and learning. The university boasts four faculties: Philosophy, Theology, Canon Law, and Civil Law. It also publishes scientific journals and maintains a vast library with a treasure trove of rare books. The Pontifical Lateran University stands as a beacon of knowledge and faith. It welcomes those eager to learn, to question, and to engage with the world in a meaningful way.