Oxford Essentials 2

Oxford Introduction
Oxford History and How It Works
Oxford Essentials
Christ Church College
Balliol College
Ashmolean Museum
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CRUISING TO ENGLAND:

OXFORD
ESSENTIALS

page two

The Sheldonian Theatre

The Sheldonian Theatre is the official ceremonial hall of the University of Oxford. It is used for ceremonies such as matriculation, graduation, meetings of the university parliament, and for awarding of honorary degrees. This 1,000 seat hall is also used for lectures and for concerts. Handel performed here.

One of Sir Christopher Wren's first major designs, the Sheldonian was constructed between 1664 and 1669. It was named after Gilbert Sheldon, later Archbishop of Canterbury, who provided 12,000 pounds to fund the construction.

The Bridge of Sighs

Popularly called The Bridge of Sighs, the Hertford Bridge spans New College Lane. It links the Old and New quadrangles of Hertford College.

A relatively recent construction by Oxford standards, the bridge was designed by Sir Thomas Jackson and was completed in 1914. Although a romantic design, the bridge looks nothing like its popular namesake in Venice.

The Bridge of Sighs is often seen in pictures of Oxford and appeared in the Inspector Morse television series.

Bridge of Sighs, Hertford Bridge, Oxford University

The Ashmolean Museum

The Ashmolean Museum is the University's world famous museum of art and architecture. (See separate profile).

Old Ashmoleon Museum now the History of Science Museum, Oxford University

Above: The building which once housed the Ashmoleon on Broad Street is now the History of Science Museum.

Cruise destination guide - England - Oxford - Essentials - page two