John Partilla's take on why you should visit the Met Cloisters in Upper Manhattan.

1. VISITING THE MET CLOISTERS
JOHN PARTILLA

2. With its immeasurable size and
plethora of historical spots, it is fair to
say one can truly never stop exploring
New York City’s many treasures. If you
are looking to get away from the main
galleries and exhibitions on museum
mile around the upper east side, it
may be time for you to explore the
beauty of what is known as the “The
Met Cloisters” in the secluded area in
Upper Manhattan’s Fort Tryon Park.
Situated in an area overlooking the
Hudson River, Fort Tryon Park is single
handedly one of the most beautiful,
remote areas in the New York City
area.

3. A museum focusing mostly on European medieval architecture, John D.
Rockefeller acquired its early collection in 1925 from the artist and collector
George Grey Barnard. Generally speaking, the works at the Met Cloisters
range from the Gothic and Romanesque periods which were then
reconstructed in Washington Heights. The layout of the four cloisters consists
of French monasteries, abbeys and Spanish/Gothic rooms so visitors can
experience monastic life during that time period.

4. The art collections at the Cloisters predominantly is made up of European
medieval art, and there are stunning outdoor/enclosed gardens that are
absolutely perfect for wandering and reading in the late summer or fall.
Some rooms in the artistic complex have religious artifacts (bibles, altars,
etc) dating back thousands of years, and a painting that you really should
take the time to see is the highly acclaimed Unicorn Tapestries from the late
13th century Netherlands.

5. One area of the Cloisters that you really cannot miss is the chapel from 12th
century Segovia, Spain called the San Martín at Fuentidueña. The chapel’s
overwhelming size and beautiful, detailed arches truly make you feel as
though you have travelled back in time to Medieval Spain.
While there is no set rate for admission at the Met Cloisters, they suggest
that you donate around 15 dollars. Visit this link for more information.