The Calpe U3A

About us

U3A is an abbreviation of ‘University of the Third Age.’ The Calpe U3A was the first U3A established in Spain.

It is a University in its original sense—a group of people coming together to pass on what they know, and learn from one another. Its motto is: those who teach shall also learn and those who learn shall also teach. The ‘Third Age’ is an ideal time for doing this, and everyone has something to pass on. So the Calpe U3A is open to anyone in the community who is no longer in full-time employment. No qualifications are necessary—nor are any awarded.

Our aims

• To encourage and enable people to help each other to share their knowledge, skills, interests and experience. Group leaders come from within the membership: people who are happy to share their skills and expertise.
• To demonstrate the benefits and enjoyment to be gained and the new horizons to be discovered in learning throughout life.
• To celebrate the capabilities and potential of the Third Age and our value to society.

Each individual member has a responsibility to shape the Calpe U3A to serve the needs of members. If this sounds serious, it is, but it's also fun. The U3A encourages a learning experience in a fun, relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Just as with students of the ‘Second Age’, many of our members are motivated by the social life.

To find out how the whole thing started, have a look at our story. At the present time, there are over 500 members in the Calpe U3A and we are still growing. We have members of many nationalities, from a number of towns and villages in the area.

A General Meeting is held once a month in the Casa de Cultura in Calpe. Information on activities is shared at this time. We also produce a monthly newsletter, with contributions from members.

Want to know more?

You may like to read more about the benefits of membership—and then join us!