Martin M. Miles' photos with the keyword: Universidad de Valladolid

In the 8th century, Arab-Moorish armies advanced into the north of the Iberian Peninsula, but as early as the 10th century the area was temporarily reconquered by the Christians (Reconquista). In the late 11th century, Count Pedro Ansúrez made the largely depopulated city his residence, expanded it, and promoted its repopulation (repoblación), which is why he is often considered the actual founder of the city. The University of Valladolid was founded in 1241 by Alfonso VIII of Castille. It is one of the oldest universities in the world. In the 15th century, it became the capital of the Kingdom of Castile until Philip II moved the center of power to the newly built monastery residence Real Sitio de San Lorenzo de El Escorial near Madrid in 1561. In 1561 most of the city burned down but was rebuilt under Philip II. The first building of the university was built in the 15th century. At the beginning of the 18th century, an expansion of the complex was made by adding another cloister that gave more rooms. This baroque facade is composed of two stories and gigantic columns, Corinthian capitals. At the top, in the frontispiece, is the statue of the Wisdom, depicted as a matron walking over ignorance. The complex was destroyed in 1909 by fire, but the facade was kept with the new building.