The
University of Melbourne is widely recognised as one of Australia's leading educational institutions. What is all too often overlooked by those of us in Melbourne, who may well pass it by every day, is the beautiful array of architecture it has to offer.
The university's Parkville campus features buildings dating back to as far as 1854 (a mere nineteen years younger than Melbourne itself). Even today, these buildings have been well kept and continue to serve as classrooms and lecture halls. Best of all, they're open to public access and taking the time to explore them, can be both interesting and educational.
The Old Commerce Building (the transposed face of a Collins Street Bank onto a 1930s building)
Though you're likely to find many surprising gems wandering the grounds, there are some places I'd recommend you not miss. There's the glass-walled
Wilson Hall, which was built in 1952 and where the university's graduation ceremonies are still held today. There's also the spacious and green
South Lawn, which offers a beautiful view of the clock tower and leads easily to the
Old Quadrangle (the University's oldest building).
Another highlight which is all too easy to overlook is the
Gatekeepers Cottage. Designed by the University's architect Joseph Reed in the 1870s (though with some extensions and alterations in 1962), this is a heritage listed location. To be found on the main entrance in Grattan Street, it is the second oldest surviving building in the University.
In order to get the most out of your experience, you will need to bring a map of the grounds. Many are available but I'd recommend the one you'll find
here. There are also several large campus wide maps located around the university, but they can be hard to find if you don't know where to look.
It must be stressed that over the years as the university's population has grown, so too have its needs. Some more discriminating architecture enthusiasts may find themselves put off by the many more modern buildings constructed amongst the old. While others may find the varying styles of architecture make them feel like they're walking through different points in history.
Details on the university's academic schedule can be found
here. Depending on your personal attitude to large groups of university students (or, as I believe they are officially known; flocks), you may wish to plan your visit for times outside of teaching periods. The campus is usually fairly deserted on weekends though, so this shouldn't be a major issue.
Keep in mind that you will be accepting a trade-off by attending outside of the university's busiest times. Most university based businesses will not be operating and most amenities will not be available outside of academic hours.
If alternatively you do choose to brave the flood of students though, then I'd highly recommend you check out
Castro's Café. It can serve as both a good place to get that much needed caffeine fix for a long tour, or to rest your feet about halfway through one.
