What were the first three universities established in Europe?

The first three universities established in Europe were Bologna, Paris, and Oxford, making this the correct choice. The University of Bologna, founded in 1088, is widely regarded as the first university in the world. It set a precedent for higher education institutions in Europe by emphasizing the importance of academic freedom and the study of liberal arts and law.

The University of Paris, established in the early 12th century, became a center for theological studies and was instrumental in the development of the scholastic method, significantly influencing medieval education.

Oxford University has its origins around the late 11th century and is the oldest university in the English-speaking world. It gained prominence for its studies in various fields, including law, medicine, and the arts.

Together, these institutions shaped the landscape of higher education in medieval Europe, establishing models that would be followed by later universities. This historical significance reinforces why this option is the correct answer.