Sheldonian Theatre

The Sheldonian Theatre, in Oxford

The Sheldonian Theatre is the ceremony hall of the University of Oxford, a masterpiece designed by the famous architect Christopher Wren. The Oxford audio-guided tour stops here to evoke this fine seventeenth-century building, where the degree ceremonies and the great university events take place.

The ceremony hall of Christopher Wren

The Sheldonian Theatre is the official ceremony hall of the University of Oxford. This fine building was built in the seventeenth century from the plans of Christopher Wren, one of the greatest English architects, future designer of St Paul's Cathedral in London, then a young professor of astronomy at Oxford. Wren was inspired by the ancient Roman theatres to design this semicircular hall, endowed with a magnificent painted ceiling. The building owes its name to Gilbert Sheldon, archbishop of Canterbury, who financed its construction. Since its creation, the Sheldonian hosts the great ceremonies of the university, in particular the solemn degree ceremonies, as well as concerts and conferences. Outside, it is surrounded by a series of sculpted stone heads, the famous Emperors' Heads, which intrigue the visitors. A masterpiece of architecture and the heart of the ceremonial life of Oxford, the Sheldonian Theatre is a must-see stop.

What to see

You admire the ceremony hall of the university, built in the seventeenth century by Christopher Wren after the ancient Roman theatres, with a semicircular hall and a magnificent painted ceiling, financed by the archbishop Gilbert Sheldon, where the degree ceremonies take place, surrounded by the famous stone heads, the Emperors' Heads. The Sheldonian Theatre is a masterpiece of Oxford. It is a must-see stop, to be explored on foot.

Practical information

The Sheldonian Theatre lies in the heart of Oxford, near the Bodleian Library, reachable on foot. The visit follows its own hours and conditions, which vary and depend on the ceremonies. It is best to check them before coming.

Who designed the Sheldonian Theatre of Oxford?

Christopher Wren, one of the greatest English architects and future designer of St Paul's Cathedral in London, in the seventeenth century; he was inspired by the ancient Roman theatres, and the building, financed by the archbishop Gilbert Sheldon, hosts the degree ceremonies of the university.

Where is the Sheldonian Theatre of Oxford?

In the heart of Oxford, near the Bodleian Library, in England.