Sheldonian Theatre, Oxford (must see)

The Sheldonian Theatre is one of the most distinctive ceremonial buildings in Oxford and a landmark closely tied to the traditions of the University of Oxford. Built between 1664 and 1669, it was designed by the young architect and scientist Christopher Wren, long before he became known for rebuilding much of London after the Great Fire of London. The project was funded by Gilbert Sheldon, whose name the theatre still carries today.

For centuries, university graduation ceremonies had taken place in the University Church of Saint Mary the Virgin, but increasingly lively celebrations clashed with the church’s religious atmosphere. Sheldon responded by financing a dedicated ceremonial venue where graduations, lectures, concerts, and formal gatherings could take place, adapting the concept of a Roman theatre for academic life.

Architecturally, the Sheldonian Theatre stands apart from Oxford’s Gothic colleges through its classical design, inspired by the 1st-century BC Theatre of Marcellus. The central exterior highlight is the series of “Emperor’s Heads” along the iron railings facing Broad Street. To find this feature, walk along the perimeter fence outside the main entrance and look for the 13 monumental stone busts, each with a distinctively stern expression. Originally carved in the 1660s and replaced over the centuries due to erosion, they serve as stoic guardians of the university’s ceremonial grounds.

The theatre’s broad D-shaped interior presented a structural challenge, as conventional roof beams could not span the width without obstructing views. To solve this, Wren adapted a geometric timber framework first developed by mathematician John Wallis in 1648, creating a lattice of trusses and crossbeams that eliminated the need for supporting pillars.

Inside, the ceiling is especially eye-catching, representing a relic of 17th-century artistic ambition. Painted with 32 oil-on-canvas panels by Robert Streater, the artwork illustrates Truth, Arts, and Sciences triumphing over Ignorance within the university. To find this highlight, look up from the centre of the wooden benches in the auditorium. From beneath the grand span, look for the illusion of a red sky being drawn back by cherubs to reveal a celestial assembly.

Another notable feature is the octagonal lantern, or cupola, at the centre of the roof. To reach this highlight, ascend the stairs above the gallery levels. Once inside the small viewing chamber, look through the large windows for panoramic views across Oxford’s rooftops, including the nearby Bodleian Library and Radcliffe Camera.

The theatre remains an active venue, so depending on the day, visitors may encounter concerts, lectures, rehearsals, or graduation ceremonies.