The University of Bologna in Italy is one of the oldest universities in the world, founded in 1088. With an enrollment of 95,000 students, it attracts international students and provides cultural experiences. Throughout its history, the university has had strong ties to the Catholic Church and received financial support from Popes. It began as a school of theology taught by monks and has evolved into a modern research university with bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree programs similar to other European systems of higher education.