Brasenose College

Location: Oxford, England

Brasenose College, one of Oxford's historic colleges, has a fascinating architectural history:

  • Foundation and Name: The college was founded in 1509 on the site of Brasenose Hall, a medieval academic hall. Its name is believed to come from a brass or bronze door knocker that adorned the hall's door.
  • Old Quad: For its first century, the college consisted of just one quadrangle, known as the Old Quad. The kitchen wing, dating back to the 15th century, is thought to be the oldest building on the site.
  • Library and Chapel: These were constructed between 1655 and 1666. Before this, the library and chapel were located in rooms within the Old Quad.
  • New Quad: In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the college expanded with the addition of the New Quad.
  • Cloisters: Beneath the library, an open cloister was built in the 17th century for Fellows to exercise during bad weather. It was later converted into rooms for students.

The college's blend of medieval and later architectural styles reflects its long history.

Brasenose College
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