Universidad Nacional de San Antonio Abad

About

Universidad Nacional de San Antonio Abad del Cusco (UNSAAC), founded in 1692, is one of Peru's oldest and most prestigious public universities, deeply rooted in the historical heart of the Inca Empire. It is particularly renowned for programs in Archaeology, Anthropology, Tourism, and History, leveraging its unique location in Cusco, a UNESCO World Heritage site. For international students, UNSAAC offers an immersive cultural experience primarily through exchange programs managed by its International Relations Office, though most courses are taught in Spanish. While dedicated English-taught degree programs are limited, the university provides a rich environment for those seeking to study Andean culture and history, with support for Spanish language acquisition. Its most distinctive characteristic is its unparalleled integration with the ancient Inca capital, offering a living laboratory for historical and cultural studies.

Background

The National University of Saint Anthony the Abbot in Cusco (Spanish: Universidad Nacional de San Antonio Abad del Cusco) (UNSAAC), also known as Saint Anthony University of Cusco or University of Cusco, is a public university in Cusco, Peru and one of the oldest in the country. Its foundation was first proposed on March 1, 1692, at the urging and support of Pope Innocent XII. The document in which Pope Innocent XII sponsored the founding of the university was signed in Madrid, Spain by King Charles II on June 1, 1692, thus becoming Cusco's principal and oldest university. The university was authorized to confer the bachelors, licentiate, masters, and doctorate degrees. UNSAAC consistently ranks among the top ten universities in the country. It currently has 24 faculties with 37 professorial chairs and 29 academic departments.

Location

Quick facts

Nearby universities