Cloisters Museum - New York, New York

Medieval Art at the Cloisters, Metropolitan Museum of Art. Set in Fort Tyron Park, on a hill overlooking the beautiful Hudson River rests the Cloisters.  This is part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art; however, this branch focuses on medieval art and architecture from Europe.  Germain Bazin has glowingly described this particular branch of the museum as "the crowning achievement of American Museumology."

The Cloisters takes its name from the construction used to create it.  Quadrangles are enclosed by an arcade, the design of which was based on numerous medieval cloisters and historical sites in France.  There are gardens at several of the cloisters, providing visitors with authentic medieval horticulture, including flowers, herbs and much more.

The museum holds approximately 5,000 works of medieval European art, from statues to stained glass windows, figurines to architecture.  Each stunning piece dates from periods ranging from A.D. 800 through the 15th century.  The architecture of the museum is one of the largest draws, though the incredible collection of Romanesque and Gothic art is also a popular attraction (and the focus of the museum).  The Cloisters are constructed to provide a stopping point between each gallery, providing visitors with a quiet place to sit and enjoy the harmonious aspect of medieval architecture and art.  The stunning gardens around the museum offer visitors more ways to enjoy the beauty of medieval times.

Some of the most stunning of the artworks and items housed at the Cloisters are an French illuminated manuscript dating from the early 1400s, a carved ivory cross from the 12th century, a stone Virgin from the 13th century that once decorated the Strasbourg Cathedral, the Merode Triptych and stained glass windows from the chapel at castle Ebreichsdorf.

In addition to the numerous items held at the Cloisters, an impressive array of 6,000 items rests at the main museum, housed on the first floor.  Together, these collections represent some of the best preserved and stunning works from medieval Europe and stand as a testament to the ingenuity and beauty that once flourished throughout Europe.

Visiting the Cloisters will offer guests an amazing chance to travel back in time.  From the Nine Heroes Tapestry Room to the Late Gothic Hall, from the Romanesque Hall to the stunning Gothic Chapel, you’ll enjoy an immersive experience that will delight all the senses.

Fort Tryon Park
799 Fort Washington Ave
New York , NY 10040