Radcliffe Square facts for kids
Radcliffe Square is a beautiful open space in the heart of Oxford, England. It is surrounded by some of the oldest and most famous buildings of Oxford University. The square has a charming cobbled surface and a grassy area in the middle, fenced off with railings. Only people on foot can enter, making it a peaceful place to explore.
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Who Was John Radcliffe?
The square is named after a very important person named John Radcliffe. He was once a student at Oxford University. Later, he became a doctor to the King and earned a huge amount of money. When he passed away, he left a lot of his wealth to Oxford University and his old college, University College. This college is located nearby on the High Street.
The Amazing Radcliffe Camera
Right in the center of Radcliffe Square stands the impressive, round building called the Radcliffe Camera. This building is a library and was paid for by John Radcliffe's generous gift. It was built between 1737 and 1748.
The Radcliffe Camera is actually part of the famous Bodleian Library. The main Bodleian Library building is just north of the square. These two libraries are connected by an underground tunnel. There are also many books stored right underneath Radcliffe Square! This underground space can hold about 600,000 books. Students and researchers can ask for these books to be brought up to them. Long ago, there was even a small underground railway to move books between the Radcliffe Camera and the main Bodleian Library.
Famous Buildings Around the Square
To the west of Radcliffe Square, you'll find Brasenose College. This is one of Oxford's older colleges, with a long history.
On the eastern side is All Souls College. This college is quite unique because it only has "fellows" (like professors or researchers) and no regular students. It focuses mostly on advanced research. You can often get a good peek into the college through its beautiful metal gates, even though they are usually locked. The eastern edge of the square is also part of a street called Catte Street.
The University Church
At the southern end of the square is the University Church of St Mary the Virgin. This church has a very tall and striking spire. It is the official church of Oxford University. Historically, important trials took place here, including those of the Oxford Martyrs.
You can climb the tower of St Mary's Church for a small fee. From the top, you get an amazing view of Radcliffe Square and the rest of central Oxford. It's a fantastic spot for taking photos!
Why Everyone Loves Radcliffe Square
Many people believe Radcliffe Square is the most beautiful square in Oxford. It is very popular with tourists who come to admire its historic charm. You won't see any modern buildings here, which makes it feel like stepping back in time. Because of this, it's often used as a setting for movies that take place in the past. For example, in the film Young Sherlock Holmes, Brasenose College was shown as Sherlock Holmes' college.
The square has also hosted special events. In 2009, it was part of the Brasenose Quincentenary Ball, which celebrated 500 years of Brasenose College.
Gallery
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The Radcliffe Camera in Radcliffe Square, with the spire of St Mary's, the University church, behind.
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The ornamental railinged gate of All Souls College on Radcliffe Square.
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The mid eastern side of Radcliffe Square, towards All Souls College.
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The south east corner of Radcliffe Square, as viewed from St Mary's, with All Souls College at the top of the picture.
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Radcliffe Square on the day of Encaenia, 2009.
