Roman College

The Collegio Romano, once a prestigious college run by the Jesuit order, has played an important role in the education of many influential figures. Over its history, the school has taught numerous popes, cardinals, and bishops who went on to shape the direction of the Catholic Church.

A New Era for the School

In 1870, the institution transitioned to a secular school, opening its doors to a broader group of students and shedding its monastic roots. This change marked a significant shift in its long and storied past.

Symbols and Scientific Progress

Visitors to the building often notice the coat of arms above the entrance, belonging to Pope Gregory XIII, who led the Catholic Church between 1572 and 1585. Another striking feature is the tower, constructed in 1787, which once served as an astronomical observatory. For many years, the tower’s clock was the official timekeeper for all of Rome, with every other clock in the city set according to its time until 1925.