The Menendez Pelayo lnternational University

Since its foundation in 1932, the Menendez Pelayo lnternational University (UIMP) has gained extensive experience and prestige in the organization of university-level courses and seminars. Active participation by well-known Spanish and foreign specialists and lecturers has led it to be considered one of Europe's leading summer universities. More than eight thousand students attend its courses in Santander every year, especialy the summer courses from June to September. The academic programme, covering topical matters and areas of scientific interest, is complemented by a wide range of cultural activities: concerts, drama, art exhibitions, films, meetings with novelists, poetry readings, excursions, etc.

The University's most symbolic building is the Palacio de la Magdalena. Located on the Magdalena Peninsula, it was donated by the City of Santander to King Alfonso Xlll in 1912 for use as a Royal summer residence. Today it belongs to the Council of Santander which assigns it to the University. Restoration work was carried out in 1995 and incorporated teaching and technological facilities while respecting the building's monumental and historic value.

Also, on the Peninsula is the Residencia de la Playa (Residence Hall on the Beach), built in 1914 as the Royal Stables (Caballerizas Reales), and the Main Hall (Paraninfo). This Hall of Residence houses both Spanish and foreign students during academic periods.

The UlMP also owns the Las Llamas Campus, the base for the Higher Centre for Hispanic, Linguistic and Cultural Studies. This is where courses in Spanish language and culture for foreign students are held, as well as Courses for Teachers of Spanish as a Foreign Language, the Higher Course in Philology for Young Hispanists, post-graduate studies in Translation and Interpretation and the Expert and Master's Course in Teaching Spanish as a Foreign Language.