Merton College

Welcome to Merton College, one of the three colleges—alongside Balliol and University College—that claim to be the oldest in Oxford. Founded in twelve sixty-four by Walter de Merton, the Bishop of Rochester and Chancellor to King…

We begin our tour at the main lodge and gatehouse. As you stand before the imposing wooden doors, look up to see one of Merton's most charming treasures: a beautiful stone freeze. …

We have now entered Mob Quad, the oldest quadrangle in all of Oxford. Its name, though sounding a bit modern, is actually of uncertain origin but adds to the quad's unique character. …

We stand now in Merton College Chapel, a structure of immense size and majesty that dominates the college skyline. Construction began in twelve ninety and continued in stages until the mid-fifteenth century. …

As we move from the front of the college toward the newer quads, we pass through the Fitzjames Arch. Construction on this arch began according to a closely consulted astrological timetable, reflecting the medieval belief in the…

We have now emerged into Fellows' Quad, the crowning achievement of Warden Sir Henry Savile, built between sixteen o-eight and sixteen ten. This is Merton's grandest quad, lined with majestic crenellations and featuring the…

Tucked away behind the grandeur of the quads is one of Merton's best-kept secrets: its peaceful gardens. Looking back from the greenery, you get a spectacular view of the reverse side of Fellows' Quad. …

As we walk back toward the lodge, I hope you have been struck by the sheer historical depth of Merton College. We have seen the oldest quad in Oxford, visited the world's oldest university library, and marveled at the medieval…