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The city famous for its medieval university is found in central Oxfordshire. The metropolis had humble beginnings as an oxen crossing established by the Saxons 900 AD. During this ancient period the location was called Oxenaforda. The settlement quickly grew in military importance to the Mercian and Wessex nations. Danes frequently attempted to gain control of the area. The Oxford castle was constructed after 1066 and became home to a monastic community.
Oxford early on developed opportunities for formal education. Oxford was the site where George Monmouth wrote an assortment of Arthurian legends in 1139. Oxford was officially recognized as a city in 1191.
The 1200s saw the construction of three colleges in Oxford, which among other subjects forged the way for the teaching of science and the arts. Famous former students include noted authors Oscar Wilde and C.S. Lewis. Parliament convened in Oxford frequently. Local barons created the Provisions of Oxford, which was the country's first written Constitution.
In 1517, the city lost half of her citizens to the mysterious sweating sickness. Oxford survived and among the city's many industries, brewing and malting were of great importance. A canal linked Oxford with Coventry in 1790, and by the end of the decade, another link established a connection with the River Thames. Immense economical and population growth occurred in the 1900s.
Activities and Attractions
The architecture in Oxford is a conglomeration of all the periods throughout history. Many local attractions are centred around the university. The Oxford University Museum of Natural History houses massive collections pertaining to everything from entomology to zoology. The facility fascinates guests with exhibits that include ancient civilizations to monstrous dinosaurs. The Ashmolean Art and Archaeology Museum houses an amazing collection of Anglo/Saxon artefacts including prized golden objects. The Christ Church Picture Gallery was established as a way of introducing art into formal education. The vast collection includes drawings and paintings from the fourteenth to the eighteenth century. The exhibits display the works of many notable masters including Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo and Raphael.
The University Botanical Gardens began in 1648 as a study of medicinal plants. Presently, the gardens boast at least 7000 different species of plants from around the world. A medicinal garden remains with glasshouses, rock and water gardens. The Museum of the History of Science may be of interest to those who relish the sciences. The collection includes thousands of instruments from astralabs to telescopes.
The University Church of St. Mary the Virgin was opened in 1280. Containing centuries of history, the church houses the library, where the university began. The church tower and the local Carfax tower are two destinations that provide a vantage point for amazing views over the city.
Places to Stay and Dining
Many local hotels provide conveniences that include mini kitchens, regardless of room choice. Facilities are additionally located within walking distance of attractions, shopping districts and nature areas.
The Hajduczek is the first Polish restaurant in Oxford. Traditional favourites include pierogis with choice of meat, seasoned cabbage or cheese and potato stuffing.
Accommodation in Oxford
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