7 things You Didnt know about Oxford UK

In late 12th century, the University of Oxford was established. It is the oldest university in the English-speaking world. 

Its early development was marked by the establishment of various colleges, such as Balliol College in 1263 and Merton College in 1264, which played pivotal roles in shaping the university's academic structure. 

The city's medieval architecture and the university's historic colleges reflect a rich heritage that has significantly influenced education and culture over the centuries. 

The oldest part of the Bodleian Library highlights the medieval foundations in structures like the 15th-century Duke Humfrey's Library. 

The 18th century introduced Palladian, Baroque, and Neoclassical influences, exemplified by the Radcliffe Camera and the Clarendon Building.  

In recent years, the university has embraced modern design, as seen in the Blavatnik School of Government, which features Europe's largest double-glazed window.  

This blend of historic and contemporary architecture not only enhances Oxford's skyline but also provides state-of-the-art facilities for its academic community. 

Its origins incorporate an earlier 15th-century library built to house books donated by Humfrey, Duke of Gloucester.  

Today, the Bodleian Libraries collectively hold over 13 million printed items, including a vast array of rare manuscripts and early printed books.  

Among its treasures is the earliest copy of the "Rule of St Benedict," written around 700 AD, and the oldest manuscript of "The Song of Roland" from the early 12th century.  

The library also boasts the largest collection of pre-1500 printed books in any university library, with 5,623 editions in 6,755 copies, making it the fifth-largest collection of incunabula worldwide.  

Beyond the Bodleian, Oxford's historic libraries include the Duke Humfrey’s Library, named after its benefactor, which once housed many of the university's earliest manuscripts.  

Literary Alumni: Esteemed authors such as Lewis Carroll, C.S. Lewis, and J.R.R. Tolkien studied and taught at Oxford, penning classics like Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, The Chronicles of Narnia, and The Lord of the Rings. 

Film Locations: Oxford's historic architecture has featured in numerous films, notably the Harry Potter series, where the Bodleian Library and Christ Church College represented parts of Hogwarts. 

Academic Programs: The university offers diverse courses in literature, creative writing, and film studies, fostering new generations of writers and filmmakers.  

Cultural Influence: Oxford's literary heritage and cinematic portrayals continue to captivate audiences, cementing its status as a global cultural icon. 

May Day Celebrations: On May 1st, students and locals gather at dawn to hear the Magdalen College Choir sing from the college tower, followed by festivities including Morris dancing and singing by various college choirs. 

Summer Eights: An annual rowing competition on the River Isis where college teams aim to 'bump' the boat ahead, culminating in riverside celebrations with barbecues and enthusiastic crowds. 

Tortoise Fair and Race: Colleges with pet tortoises, such as Corpus Christi, participate in a light-hearted race during the Tortoise Fair, an event featuring live music, food, and various activities. 

Formal Hall Dinners: Students attend formal dinners in their college dining halls, wearing academic gowns and enjoying multi-course meals that celebrate college community and tradition. 

Carnation Tradition: During exam periods, students wear carnations to symbolize their progress: white for the first exam, pink for intermediate exams, and red for the final exam. 

Christ Church College: Lewis Carroll, a mathematics lecturer here, befriended Alice Liddell, the dean's daughter. Visitors can explore the hallways and gardens she frequented. Notably, the Cathedral Garden features a small door believed to be the one through which Alice entered Wonderland.  

Alice’s Shop: Situated opposite Christ Church, this shop was once the Old Sheep Shop, where the real Alice bought sweets. It even appears in Through the Looking-Glass. Today, it offers a variety of Alice-themed souvenirs, from books to jewelry. 

Alice’s Day: Celebrated annually in July, Oxford hosts events inspired by the classic tale, including tea parties, croquet, storytelling, and workshops, bringing the whimsical world of Wonderland to life. 

Walking Tours: Guided tours delve into the story's origins, leading visitors through significant locations that inspired Carroll's narrative. 

College Accommodation: Undergraduates typically reside in their respective colleges, which provide rooms ranging from traditional dormitories to modern student studio apartments 

University-Managed Graduate Housing: Graduate students have access to university-owned accommodations, such as the Castle Mill complex, offering options for singles, couples, and families.  

Private Student Residences: Purpose-built student accommodations (PBSAs) like Unite Students and Host provide modern living spaces with amenities such as en-suite bathrooms, communal areas, and study rooms. 

Shared Housing: Many students opt to share houses or flats in areas like East Oxford and Jericho. This arrangement offers independence and the opportunity to live with friends, though it requires managing utility bills and other responsibilities.