The National University of San Marcos was officially founded in 1551 under the authority of a royal decree issued by King Charles I of Spain. This foundation was a significant effort to establish higher education and intellectual growth in Spanish America, which was experiencing rapid socio-economic changes due to colonial expansion. Situated in the capital city of Lima, the university initially focused on faculties such as theology, law, and medicine, representing a synthesis of European educational traditions adapted to local contexts. The establishment of San Marcos came amidst a backdrop of religious and administrative changes, as the Spanish crown sought to assert its power and influence in the New World.

Over the years, San Marcos has played a crucial role in the development of education in Peru. It has attracted a diverse student body, including Indigenous populations, who sought to gain knowledge and skills that would elevate their social standing. The university became a hub for notable thinkers and leaders, contributing to the intellectual and cultural life of the nation. It fostered currents of thought that would later influence political movements and social reforms throughout the region.

The 18th and 19th centuries were significant periods for the university, as it transitioned from a colonial institution to a pillar of national identity during Peru’s struggle for independence. With the establishment of new faculties and academic programs, San Marcos solidified its reputation as a cornerstone of intellectual advancement in Latin America. Even today, it continues to adapt to modern educational needs while honoring its long-standing traditions of scholarship and community engagement.