As Australia's first tertiary education institution, the
University of Sydney is a site of particular interest for anyone who is interested in the local history of Sydney.
The University has a rich history of ground-breaking achievement. Founded in 1850, the University of Sydney was established with a radical mission: to admit students on the basis of academic merit rather than social class or religious credentials. In 1881, Sydney University opened its doors to women - one of the earliest institutions to do so.
Apart from these historical landmarks, the
Camperdown campus of the University of Sydney is, in itself, an architectural landmark.
The Main Quadrangle is not only the heart of the University, but also boasts a number of unique architectural features, such as the kangaroo gargoyle and the soaring heights of the
carillon, dedicated in 1928 and providing a regular musical accompaniment.
It is from the iconic site of the Main Quadrangle that the one hour-long guided tours of the campus commence. Available Monday to Friday between 9am and 4pm, the tours require booking at least two weeks in advance at a cost of $12 per person (with a $5 discount for seniors).
Apart from the Main Quadrangle, it is possible to explore the Anderson Stuart Building, which was the site of the original Medical School. Although there is ample material for anyone interested in learning about the past, there is also provision made for the most cutting-edge architectural design of the
New Law School. In this way,
visitors are able not only to view the important architectural features of the University, but also to see "how the University has responded to growth and changing student needs over time."
