Discover how Irish students in 17th-century Alcalá de Henares forged lasting links between Ireland and Spain.

Following the religious schism initiated by Henry VIII, and the subsequent intensification of persecutions under Elizabeth I, many Irish subjects sought refuge in mainland Europe to remain within the Church of Rome. The University of Alcalá de Henares, in the Crown of Castile, became a vital intellectual sanctuary, where these students underwent rigorous theological training before returning to Ireland or continuing their missions in Spanish America.

This lecture explores their resilience and role in bridging the Irish and Spanish worlds. We invite attendees to join an engaging Q&A session afterwards. The lecture will be in English.

About the speaker

Dr. Ignacio Ruiz Rodríguez is a Professor of Law at Rey Juan Carlos University (Madrid) and holds a PhD from the University of Alcalá. With an extensive international career spanning numerous conferences and research projects, he has been recognized with prestigious awards for his historical and legal research.

Description supplied by the event organiser.