Foundation of the University of Barcelona

Pre-1450 Academic Context. Before 1450, Barcelona had a fledgling medical school founded by King Martí in 1401. However, the Consell de Cent and other city institutions refused to recognize it, viewing it as an intrusion on their jurisdictions. This lack of official recognition persisted for nearly fifty years, creating a gap in the city's formal higher education structure.

Royal Authorization. The foundation of the Estudi General was authorized by a royal privilege granted by Alfons el Magnàxim. This prerogative was issued at the petition of the Consell de Cent, allowing them to establish a university under their control and patronage. This act is considered the true origin of the University of Barcelona, distinct from the earlier unrecognized medical school.

Date Discrepancy. Sources conflict on the specific date of the 1450 royal privilege. The University of Barcelona's official commemoration cites 3 September 1450, while other historical records state the foundation occurred on 3 November 1450. This discrepancy remains unresolved in the provided evidence, with both dates attributed to the same royal act by Alfons el Magnàxim.