The Jagiellonian University is a public research university in Kraków, Poland. Founded in 1364 by King Casimir III the Great, it is the oldest university in Poland and one of the oldest universities in continuous operation in the world. The university grounds contain the Kraków Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is regarded as Poland's most prestigious academic institution and one of the most prestigious academic institutions in Europe. The university has been viewed as a vanguard of Polish culture as well as a significant contributor to the intellectual heritage of Europe.