Monticello and the University of Virginia, Virginia
 |
|
Monticello,
Thomas Jefferson's House
|
Thomas Jefferson was a man of creative genius
whose writings and architecture embody ideals of universal freedom, self-determination and
self-fulfillment that continue to inspire humanity. Jefferson gave form to the nascent United
States through his philosophical writings, his service to the country, and more literally through
his architectural innovation. Between 1784 and 1809 he designed, built and then rebuilt his home,
Monticello, perched atop a hill in Virginia's Piedmont. The low, red-brick structure with its Doric
portico and white octagonal dome served as a laboratory for Jefferson's landscape, architectural,
political, and domestic ideas. Monticello and the University of Virginia were both strongly
influenced by Jefferson's study of neoclassical architecture, which he was introduced to during his
years as American Ambassador in Paris.
 |
|
University
of Virginia rotunda
|
In 1819, Jefferson founded the University of
Virginia. His design for the University is extremely significant as a physical architectural
embodiment of his social and educational vision and unique view towards providing educational
opportunity for all citizens of the new republic. The University Grounds were centered on a central
domed Rotunda (modeled on the Pantheon) which served not as a chapel, but as the library, flanked by
two parallel facing rows of buildings on either side of a central common space, the 'Lawn.' Each row
included five 'Pavilions,' or houses, for each of the University's ten schools. These were occupied
by 1-2 small classrooms downstairs and a faculty residence upstairs. The Pavilions were separated
along a covered exterior walkway, or 'Colonnade,' by a row of student rooms. Jefferson modeled the
design for each of the 'Pavilions' as an "architectural specimen" based on an example from Roman or
Neoclassical Architecture.
Inscribed in 1987 as a Cultural site, under
Criteria C (i), (iv) and (vi).
Links
Monticello
University of Virginia
World Heritage Convention