Oxford - Colleges

Although the center of Oxford is not large, plenty of time should be allowed for a visit, since there are so many things to see. The main features, of course, are the 40 colleges, which as a rule are only accessible to visitors during the afternoon in term-time. Ever since the 13th century college buildings have been set out around a quadrangle, subsequently around several inner courtyards, with a gate which could be locked when necessary. They included a chapel, dining-hall, library and rooms for the students and their tutors, so that each college formed an autonomous body.