The University of Paris , metonymically known as the Sorbonne , was a French university, founded circa 1150 in Paris, France, recognised 1200 by King Philip II and 1215 by Pope Innocent III, as one of the first universities. Reputed for its academic performance notably in theology and philosophy, it introduced many European academic as well as student traditions, such as student nations. The university is colloquially referred to as the Sorbonne after its collegiate institution, Collège de Sorbonne, founded around 1257 by Robert de Sorbon.