The Irish Connection: Scholars in 17th-Century Alcalá de Henares

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.

After the talk by Dr Ignacio Ruiz, we invite attendees to join an engaging Q&A session.

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.
Part of Dublin Festival of History