Oxford University

Merton College, Oxford, England. Founded in 1264, Merton is one of Oxford University's oldest colleges. This view of the college chapel – built in the Perpendicular style, and completed by 1450 – is taken from the Mob Quadrangle, which is surrounded by 14th-century buildings with later additions.

The Radcliffe Camera, Oxford. The building is part of Oxford University's Bodleian Library and was built by the Scottish architect James Gibbs in 1737–49. It is named after John Radcliffe, the 17th-century English physician whose patients included a succession of British monarchs.

Oxford colleges seen from the tower of the church of St Mary the Virgin. Oxford is home to the oldest of the English universities, University College being founded in 1249. With its ancient buildings, often built around medieval quadrangles, the city is a seat of learning respected throughout the world.

Oldest British university, established during the 12th century, the earliest existing college being founded in 1249. After suffering from land confiscation during the Reformation, it was reorganized by Elizabeth I in 1571. In 1996–97 there were 15,641 undergraduates in residence. All colleges, with the exception of St Hilda's (women only), are now coeducational.