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HistorySurprise 5/5Difficulty 3/5Reviewed on September 17, 2026

The University of Al Quaraouiyine in Morocco is the oldest existing, continually operating higher educational institution in the world.

Why it is true

Founded in 859 AD by Fatima al-Fihri, this university in Fez is recognized by UNESCO and Guinness World Records as the oldest educational institution still in operation.

Source: UNESCO

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