Overview
The Cloisters is a museum in New York City dedicated to the art, architecture, and gardens of medieval Europe. It’s a branch of The Metropolitan Museum of Art and houses an extraordinary collection of over 5,000 pieces spanning the 12th through 15th centuries. The Cloisters is not just a museum, but an immersive experience that transports visitors back to the Middle Ages, with its reconstructed monastic elements from southern France, including chapels, halls, and cloisters that give the museum its name.
Location
The Cloisters is located at 99 Margaret Corbin Drive, Fort Tryon Park, New York, NY 10040, USA. The museum is nestled in the verdant setting of the park, overlooking the Hudson River, which further enhances the medieval ambiance.
Website
For up-to-date information on exhibitions, events, and visitor guidelines, visit The Cloisters’ official website, a part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s web presence: https://www.metmuseum.org/visit/plan-your-visit/met-cloisters
Opening Hours
The Cloisters is open seven days a week. The museum operates from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, though hours can vary during holidays and special events. It is recommended to check the current hours on the official website before planning your visit.
Things to do
– Explore Artworks: Discover a rich collection of medieval artifacts, including sculptures, illuminated manuscripts, textiles, and more.
– Visit the Gardens: Stroll through the carefully curated gardens, featuring plants that were grown during the Middle Ages.
– Marvel at Architecture: Experience the architectural elements transported from Europe, including cloisters, chapels, and a chapter house.
– Enjoy Special Exhibitions: The museum regularly hosts special exhibitions that delve deep into specific aspects of medieval life and art.
History
The Cloisters was designed by architect Charles Collens and opened to the public in 1938. The museum was largely funded by philanthropist John D. Rockefeller Jr., who also acquired the land for Fort Tryon Park. The buildings are a blend of original and reconstructed elements from five medieval French cloisters, with additional architectural fragments from other sites.
Tips For Visiting
– Plan Ahead: Check the museum’s website for any special exhibitions or events during your visit.
– Time Your Visit: Allow at least two hours for your visit to fully appreciate the museum and its surroundings.
– Guided Tours: Consider taking a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the artworks and architecture.
– Dress Appropriately: The museum is climate-controlled, but you might want to dress comfortably for walking through the park.
– Accessibility: The museum is wheelchair accessible, and wheelchairs are available free of charge.
– Photography: Non-flash photography for personal use is permitted, except in special exhibition galleries.
The Cloisters offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore the richness of medieval European art and architecture without leaving New York City. It is a must-visit for history and art enthusiasts.
