The University of Tartu is one of the oldest universities in Northern and Eastern Europe. It was founded in 1632 by King Gustavus Adoplhus of Sweden. The university, modelled after the University of Uppsala in Sweden, was intended to pursue research and advance learning in a wide variety of disciplies. It has continued to adhere to this tradition.
The University of Tartu is the leading centre of research and training and the only classical university in Estonia. It preserves the culture and language of the Estonian people. For many Estonians higher education equals with the University of Tartu.