Vilnius University (Lithuanian: Vilniaus universitetas; other names exist) is the oldest university in the Baltic states and one of the oldest and most famous establishments of higher education in Eastern and Central Europe. It is the largest university in Lithuania.

The university was founded in 1579 as the Jesuit Academy (College) of Vilnius (Vilna, Wilno) by King Stephen Báthory. 

Functioning for a long time as the only school of higher learning in Lithuania, it was a preserver of cultural and scientific traditions, and has played a significant part in the cultural life not only of Lithuania, but the neighboring countries as well. 

In the Erasmus programme for student exchange, Vilnius University cooperates with more than 370 universities in 29 countries. It has signed bilateral international cooperation agreements with about 120 universities.

University in a nutshell: The University of Vilnius has 12 faculties, 7 institutes, 4 study and research centers, the oldest Library in Lithuania, 3 university hospital­s, an Astronomical Observatory, a Botanical Garden, a Centre of Information Technology Development,­ and houses St. John's C­hurch.­