Maria Montessori In 1896, Maria Montessori (1870-1952) became the first female physician in Italy. Subsequently in 1907, her interest in children and education led her to open a Children's house in the slums outside Rome. Dr. Montessori put into practice her theory stating that children have a natural tendency towards self-education and self-realization.

Nowadays, the Montessori Method is well known all over the world.