I love taking my child to places that feel alive with stories. Sorbonne University of Paris sounds like a treasure chest. Say it slowly with a child. It feels magical and full of history.
Why Sorbonne University of Paris matters
The history began with small cathedral schools in the mid 1100s. In 1257, Robert de Sorbon founded the College of Sorbonne, which was recognized by royal authority. That act gave the name enduring power. Later thinkers and scientists taught or studied in Paris. For families, the story links history and imagination. This legacy continues as the university has grown to include over 55,000 students, including 12,000 international students, as of the 2024-2025 academic year, showcasing its broad appeal and commitment to education.
Quick timeline
- Mid 1100s: early schools in Paris take shape.
- 1257: College of Sorbonne founded by Robert de Sorbon.
- 17th to 19th centuries: the Sorbonne building is rebuilt and expanded.
- 1970: the University of Paris splits into several universities.
- 2018: Sorbonne Université forms, merging humanities and sciences.
Sorbonne University of Paris today
Sorbonne University of Paris is a modern research university. It blends humanities, natural sciences, medicine, and engineering. It awards Licence, Master, and Doctorat degrees. The university offers 37 bachelor’s degrees with 40 bi-disciplinary options and 38 master’s programs comprising 266 specialized tracks, making it an attractive choice for students. Tens of thousands of students study across many campuses. Also, large libraries like the Bibliothèque de la Sorbonne keep books and quiet corners. Sorbonne Université comprises 135 research units and 23 doctoral schools, with about 3,900 doctoral candidates, emphasizing its commitment to research and advanced studies.
A walk with kids
Start in the Latin Quarter. The Sorbonne façade and courtyard invite brief stops. I point out old doorways and carved statues. Then we stroll to the Jardin du Luxembourg for a picnic. Next, the Cluny Museum offers medieval curiosities. I once led my five year old on a scavenger walk. They hunted for carved faces and tiny details. They loved it.
Practical tips for parents
Check the university website before you go. Parts of the building close during term time. Also, look for guided tours or Journées Portes Ouvertes. Dress for walking and pack water. Combine your visit with a museum next door. Or, play a short Storypie audio episode to set the scene.
Kid-friendly activities
Try a short audio story to spark curiosity. Then do a scavenger hunt with simple items. For example:
- Find an engraved door.
- Spot a statue.
- Visit a nearby bookshop.
Ask a simple question. Who might study here and why? Keep sentences short. Let children answer and imagine freely.
Read or listen to a story about Sorbonne, University of Paris now: For 3-5 year olds, For 6-8 year olds, For 8-10 year olds, and For 10-12 year olds.
A tiny action to try tonight
Tell a two sentence history in first person. Say, I walked to an old school where people have studied for over 800 years. Then ask your child to draw one thing they imagine. Simple. Joyful. Curious. Go try it.
For more kid-friendly stories and episodes, visit Storypie and explore places to spark wonder.
