The University of Navarra was founded by St. Josemaría Escrivá, founder of Opus Dei, who in 1951 had already decided to establish a university center in Pamplona. At that time there were twelve universities in Spain.

In April 1952, professors Amadeo de Fuenmayor and José Mª Albareda, prominent figures in Spanish university life, traveled to Pamplona, where they met with Bishop Enrique Delgado and presented project to the Provincial Council of Navarra, which promised its support. The name Estudio General de Navarra was established, since the law at that time did not allow non-state universities. St. Josemaría entrusted Ismael Sánchez Bella, Full Professor of History of Law, with its implementation.

Don Ismael arrived in Pamplona, from Argentina, at the beginning of July 1952. That same academic year 52/53, the classes of the School Law School began to be taught in premises provided by the Provincial Council in the Chamber of Comptos.

The Estudio General de Navarra was officially inaugurated on October 17, 1952. That first opening ceremony took place in the Hall of the committee Foral de Navarra, in the Provincial Council, and was attended by provincial and local authorities.