Utrecht is the fourth largest city of the Netherlands and has the 2nd most cultural events, only falling behind Amsterdam. Its population as of January 1, 2011 was 312,634. Utrecht was founded as a city, although inhabited earlier, around 50 AD when the Romans used it as fortification and defense.
On this day March 26th, in 1636, Utrecht University is founded. In 2008 Utrecht University had over 29,000 students. It is the top university in the Netherlands, and it was rated according to the Shanghai Ranking of World Universities at number 68.
Utrecht University offers 46 different bachelors programs, 3 of which are taught in English. It also has 196 graduate programs, 89 of these are taught in English. As can be seen, this is an international university which aims at involving the entire world. It makes sense because its motto is “lIustitiae Illustra Nos,” which means “Sun of Justice, shine upon us.” Utrecht University is striving to be a light unto the world, as it did from the start by opposing many theologians and encouraging debates.