Ca' Foscari University

Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, founded in 1868 as the Higher School of Commerce, is one of the most prestigious academic institutions in Italy and a symbol of the lagoon city. Its main headquarters, Palazzo Foscari, is located in the Dorsoduro district, along the Grand Canal, in a setting of great beauty and historical importance. Palazzo Foscari, built in the 15th century by the doge Francesco Foscari, is a masterpiece of Venetian Gothic architecture. Its facade, characterized by elegant trefoil arches and decorations in Istrian stone, majestically overlooks the Grand Canal, offering a suggestive and fascinating view. The interior of the palace is equally impressive, with large frescoed halls and an inner courtyard that preserves the atmosphere of the Venetian Renaissance. Ca’ Foscari University has a long tradition of academic excellence and innovation. Founded to meet the commercial and economic needs of Venice, the school quickly evolved into a comprehensive university, with faculties of economics, languages, humanities, sciences and technology, and social sciences. In 1968, Ca’ Foscari obtained the legal status of a university, consolidating its role as a leader in Italian higher education. One of the most distinctive aspects of Ca’ Foscari is its strong international vocation. The university is known for its exchange programs and collaborations with academic institutions around the world, offering students unique opportunities for study and research abroad. This commitment to internationalization is also reflected in the wide range of undergraduate and master’s courses offered in foreign languages, attracting students and professors from all over the globe. A highly artistic and cultural element is the Baratto Hall, designed by architect Carlo Scarpa in the 1950s. This space, used for lectures and conferences, is an extraordinary example of modern design that harmoniously integrates historical and contemporary elements. The wooden and glass boiserie, separating the hall from the external corridor, is one of the most recognizable features of Scarpa’s work and a symbol of the blend of tradition and innovation that characterizes Ca’ Foscari. Throughout its history, Ca’ Foscari has hosted numerous events and visits by illustrious figures. In 1985, Pope John Paul II visited the university, meeting students and professors and emphasizing the importance of education and culture for the future of society. In 1990, the Dalai Lama Tenzin Gyatso visited Ca’ Foscari, inviting the university to cooperate in promoting Tibetan culture and defending human rights. Ca’ Foscari is also a center of cultural and artistic life. The university regularly organizes exhibitions, concerts, film screenings, and theatrical performances, offering the Venetian community and visitors a rich calendar of events. Art Night Venice, an initiative involving museums, galleries, and cultural spaces in the city, is one of the most well-known examples of Ca’ Foscari’s commitment to promoting art and culture. Ca’ Foscari’s role in Venetian and Italian society goes beyond education and research. The university is a key player in the public debate on current issues such as environmental sustainability, globalization, and technological innovation. Through conferences, workshops, and publications, Ca’ Foscari actively contributes to shaping an informed and aware public opinion.