The University was founded by the signing of a Papal Bull on 7th January 1451.
It left Rome the same day and arrived in Glasgow in June 1451, when it was proclaimed at Glasgow Cross that a university could open.
Teaching first began in the Chapter House at Glasgow Cathedral before moving to nearby Rottenrow and then to a site on High Street in the sixteenth century. In 1870 it moved again to its current site on Gilmorehill.
Its alumni include eight Nobel Laureates, three UK Prime Ministers, three First Ministers of Scotland, 10 Fellows of the Royal Society and 11 Fellows of the British Academy.
The University’s Principal and Vice Chancellor, Professor Andy Schofield, said: "The University of Glasgow is proud of all it has achieved across its 575-year history.
"Established for the people of our city, we have evolved from being the university for Glasgow, to the university for Glasgow and the world. Our international community of world-changers extends across continents and through centuries.
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“Today we invite everyone to join us in marking this remarkable anniversary. This milestone is not just about our past, it’s about the opportunities ahead and the impact we can make together.
"On behalf of our university community - students, alumni, colleagues, partners and friends - I am delighted to wish the University a very happy 575th birthday."
Here’s a list of 20 notable individuals who attended the University of Glasgow...
13. William McIlvanney
Studied English at the University of Glasgow. Best known for authoring Laidlaw, The Papers of Tony Veitch, and Walking Wounded. Photo: Jane Barlow
14. Richard Gadd
Richard Gadd exploded onto the scene with his hit Netflix show Baby Reindeer. He studied English literature and theatre studies at the University of Glasgow, graduating in 2011. | Getty Images
15. Peter Mullan
Peter Mullan began acting on stage when he was a student of economic history and drama at the University of Glasgow. His father was also a lab technician at the uni. | Getty Images
16. Nicola Sturgeon
Former First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon studied Law at the University of Glasgow, graduating with an LLB (Hons) and a Diploma in Legal Practice, and worked as a solicitor before entering politics.