Tower of the Five Orders
Catte St, Oxford OX1 3BW
Rating: 4.8 ★ (52 ratings)
Details
Tower of the Five Orders stands as a striking Jacobean gatehouse tower, forming the grand eastern entrance to the Bodleian Library's Old Schools Quadrangle in Oxford. This historically rich landmark, completed between 1613 and 1620, exudes an academic atmosphere, offering visitors an immediate immersion into the architectural heritage of the renowned university. Its intricate design, serving as a "textbook in stone" for classical architecture, makes it a distinctive and memorable sight within the city centre.
A key highlight of the tower is its unique vertical display of the five classical orders: Tuscan, Doric, Ionic, Corinthian, and Composite, arranged in ascending succession from base to crown. Positioned between the upper columns, a seated figure of King James I, who refounded the library, can be observed, flanked by allegorical figures representing Fame and the University. Visitors can freely enter the Bodleian Old Schools Quadrangle to appreciate this detailed facade up close, with a tours ticket office conveniently located beneath the Great Gate.
This magnificent structure is particularly suited for history enthusiasts, architecture aficionados, and anyone keen to delve into Oxford's distinguished academic past. It serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the wider Bodleian Library complex and the surrounding historic heart of Oxford, making it ideal for cultural and educational visits. The overall appeal lies in its detailed craftsmanship and its role as a monumental gateway to one of the world's oldest and most prestigious libraries.
(Am I the only one thinking that?)
Awesome tower though, blends in beautifully with the Rad and church behind