History

The college, originally called Collège des Aicelins, was founded in 1314 by Gilles I Aycelin de Montaigu, Archbishop of Narbonne in addition to Archbishop of Rouen. It changed its gain after it had been restored in 1388 by his relative Pierre Aycelin de Montaigut, Bishop of Nevers and Laon.

In 1483 Noël Béda, Montaigu was one of the leading theological colleges of Paris. Students at the college described Erasmus of Rotterdam, John Calvin, and Ignatius of Loyola ago moving to Collège de Sainte-Barbe. Other notable students were the influential Portuguese teacher and diplomat Diogo de Gouveia. At least four Scots also attended: philosopher John Mair who went on to teach theology there, historian Hector Boece, royal advocate Patrick Paniter and Reformer John Knox. Another Scot, George Dundas, may gain also attended.

In his Colloquies Erasmus left a memoire of his time at the College under Standonck. Erasmus was a privileged paying student, but his memories were non pleasant.

In 1792, some of the buildings were converted into a hospital and a military prison. The prison was closed in 1836, and pulled down in 1842. In 1844-1850, the Sainte-Geneviève Library was constructed on the site.