The Cloisters, New York City

Nestled in the serene expanse of Fort Tryon Park in Upper Manhattan, The Cloisters museum stands as a portal to the medieval past amidst the bustling modernity of New York City. This branch of The Metropolitan Museum of Art, dedicated to the art and architecture of medieval Europe, was assembled from European monastic and secular structures dating from the twelfth to the fifteenth century.

Established in 1938 through the philanthropy of John D. Rockefeller, Jr., who also donated the land for the park, The Cloisters offers an immersive experience of medieval artistry. Its collection comprises approximately five thousand works of art, including illuminated manuscripts, stained glass, metalwork, enamels, and tapestries, with the famed Unicorn Tapestries being a highlight.

The architecture of The Cloisters itself is a pastiche of medieval styles, incorporating elements from French monasteries and abbeys. The museum's cloistered gardens, each planted according to horticultural information found in medieval texts and art, are not only a visual delight but also serve as a living component of the museum's educational mission.

Visitors to The Cloisters can stroll through the peaceful gardens, explore the reconstructed chapels and halls, or participate in the museum's array of educational programs, concerts, and gallery talks. With its commanding views of the Hudson River, The Cloisters provides a contemplative retreat from the city's clamor and a unique opportunity to step back in time.