Georgetown University, Washington D.C.

Georgetown University is the oldest Catholic and Jesuit university in the United States. Founded in 1789 by John Carroll, the university has grown into a prestigious institution renowned for its academic excellence and rich history. The campus's centerpiece, Healy Hall, a National Historic Landmark, was constructed between 1877 and 1879 and designed by Paul J. Pelz and John L. Smithmeyer, the same architects behind the Library of Congress. This iconic building symbolizes Georgetown's blend of historical significance and academic rigor.

The university's origins can be traced back to Jesuit settlers from England who founded the Province of Maryland in 1634. Despite facing persecution and clandestine operations during the colonial era, the Jesuits' commitment to education persevered. Following the American Revolutionary War, plans for a permanent Catholic educational institution in the United States materialized. On January 23, 1789, John Carroll finalized the purchase of the property in Georgetown, leading to the establishment of what would become Georgetown University. Instruction began in 1792, marking the beginning of a legacy of educational excellence.

Georgetown University spans four campuses in Washington, D.C.: the undergraduate campus in Georgetown, the Medical Center, the School of Continuing Studies in Chinatown, and the Law Center. The undergraduate and medical school campuses, often referred to as "The Hilltop," are situated on an elevated site above the Potomac River, offering stunning views of Northern Virginia. Despite its compact main campus area of 104 acres, Georgetown boasts fifty-four buildings, including student residences and athletic facilities, accommodating 80% of its undergraduate students. The architecture predominantly features collegiate Gothic and Georgian brick styles, creating a cohesive and historic aesthetic.

The campus is not only architecturally impressive but also beautifully landscaped, with fountains, groves of trees, clusters of flowers, and open quadrangles providing serene spaces for study and reflection. These green areas contribute to the university's tranquil and inspiring environment, making it a distinguished landmark in Washington, D.C. Georgetown University continues to uphold its Jesuit traditions while fostering academic innovation and global engagement, preparing students to lead and make meaningful contributions to society.

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Sight Name: Georgetown University
Sight Location: Washington D.C., USA (See walking tours in Washington D.C.)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Georgetown Walking Tour

Walking Tours in Washington D.C., USA

Create Your Own Walk in Washington D.C.

Creating your own self-guided walk in Washington D.C. is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.

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Georgetown University Walking Tour

Georgetown University, established in 1789, is America's oldest Catholic and Jesuit institution. Spanning four campuses in Washington, DC, its main undergraduate campus in Georgetown features fifty-four buildings across 104 acres.

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