The Cloisters Museum: a corner of medieval Europe in America
About this experience
One of the dates considered the end of the Middle Ages is the discovery of America. But I officially declare: the Middle Ages exist in New York. And you will discover it in the Cloisters museum - a stylized monastery combining Gothic and Romanesque architecture. You will learn how a building on the other side of the world was constructed from authentic European artifacts and enriched with works of art. Appreciate the ideas embedded in the project. And understand what wonder lies before you.
What to expect
Located at the northern tip of Manhattan, on top of a hill stands a complex where genuine elements of European medieval monastery architecture are integrated like Lego pieces. As someone who has been involved in restoration for many years, I understand the efforts it took to create it, and on the tour, I will help you realize its value.
You will hear about the American sculptor George Grey Barnard, and learn how his love for medieval culture laid the foundation for the museum's future collection.
I will talk about the formation of the exhibition, as well as the role of the Rockefellers in enriching it, creating a huge complex with gardens in its current form and transferring it to the Metropolitan Museum - for the benefit of people.
- Discover the 'dark times' of Europe
- Learn about the peculiarities of medieval architecture and life in monasteries
- Remember the romances of courtly literature and talk about the knightly era. Who were the knights, how did they live, and what deeds did they accomplish? You will see knightly burials and learn why one statue is in armor and the other is not.
- Examine ancient books with beautiful illustrations
- And also discuss the tales of unicorns on ancient tapestries
Organizational details
- The Cloisters is located far from the center, at the very northern tip of Manhattan. But believe me, visiting this museum is worth an extra 30 minutes underground.
- Tickets for 1-3 people are free. Entrance tickets for 4th person and subsequent participants are paid for an additional fee at a discounted price - $5 per person.
