College of the Immaculate Conception for Orphan Children

The Minor College of the Conception for Orphans of the University of Salamanca is one of the many colleges founded under the patronage of the Salamanca academic institution in the 16th century. Founded by Francisco de Solís, Bishop of Bagnorea and secretary to Paul III, for three centuries it facilitated and provided shelter and education to a multitude of poor students who lacked the means to do so. Founded in the first half of the 16th century, during this century it became established and began its journey, which would end in the 19th century. This study analyzes the College's early years, examining important issues such as its founding, the founding bulls, the founder, the first constitutions, and enrollment during the 16th century, among others. The 16th century was the century of its birth and consolidation, during which it undertook a great institutional effort, as demonstrated by the drafting of its first constitutions, the construction of the building, or its incorporation into the University of Salamanca, for example. Throughout these pages, we will explore the origins of the first university college created for the protection of poor and orphaned children, allowing them to study from grammar to graduating in the field of study they preferred. The College's social and educational work allowed for the progression and social advancement of numerous talented poor and orphaned students, who otherwise would never have been able to pursue studies at the University, as they lacked the resources to do so.