The Cloisters Museum and Gardens, part of The Metropolitan Museum of Art, is a tranquil oasis in northern Manhattan dedicated to medieval European art, architecture, and gardens. Nestled within Fort Tryon Park, The Cloisters offers a unique experience far from the hustle of the city, transporting visitors to a world of Gothic chapels, cloisters, and artifacts dating from the 12th to 15th centuries.
What Are The Met Cloisters?
- Location: 99 Margaret Corbin Drive, Fort Tryon Park, Manhattan
- Established: 1938 (as part of The Met)
- Architectural Style: Inspired by medieval monasteries and religious structures from France and Spain. Some elements of the museum are authentic, centuries-old structures brought over from Europe and reconstructed here.
- Highlight: The museum’s design is centered around four cloisters—enclosed garden courtyards once used by monks, now meticulously recreated to offer visitors an immersive experience.
Must-See Highlights at The Met Cloisters
The Unicorn Tapestries
- What It Is: A stunning series of seven tapestries depicting the mythical hunt and capture of a unicorn, dating from the late 15th century.
- Fun Fact: These tapestries are shrouded in mystery—scholars still debate the identity of their weavers and patrons.
The Treasury Room
- What It Is: A collection of sacred relics, including illuminated manuscripts, ivory carvings, gold crosses, and artifacts used in medieval religious practices.
- Highlight: The exquisite Reliquary Cross, inlaid with precious stones.
The Fuentidueña Chapel
- What It Is: A 12th-century Spanish chapel reassembled stone-by-stone in The Cloisters.
- Features:
- Romanesque architecture with high arches and a serene ambiance.
- A 12th-century Christ in Majesty fresco graces one of the walls.
- Pro Tip: Visit during the winter holidays for concerts held inside the chapel, featuring medieval music.
The Cloister Gardens
- What It Is: Three enchanting gardens—the Cuxa Cloister Garden, the Bonnefont Cloister Garden, and the Trie Cloister Garden—filled with medieval plants, herbs, and flowers.
- Highlight: Plants mentioned in medieval texts, including mandrake, rue, and lavender, are cultivated here.
- Pro Tip: Visit in spring and summer when the gardens are in full bloom for a peaceful, fragrant escape.
Architecture and Design of The Cloisters
- Combination of Original and Reconstructed Structures:
- The Cuxa Cloister (from a monastery in France) and the Fuentidueña Chapel are examples of original medieval elements transported to New York.
- Design: The museum’s layout is meant to evoke the experience of wandering through a medieval European monastery, with chapels, courtyards, galleries, and fountains around every corner.
Events and Programs The Cloisters
- Medieval Music Performances
- Seasonal concerts are held in the Fuentidueña Chapel or the galleries, featuring music from the medieval and Renaissance periods.
- Workshops and Tours
- The museum offers guided tours that explain the significance of the artwork and the historical use of the gardens.
- Holiday Events
- During December, The Cloisters hosts events like the Medieval Holiday Concert Series—perfect for experiencing the space with festive, traditional music.
Dining Near The Cloisters
- New Leaf Restaurant & Bar
- Located nearby in Fort Tryon Park, this rustic spot offers seasonal American cuisine.
- The Met Cloisters Café
- Open seasonally, serving light fare, snacks, and beverages with views of the Hudson River.
- Hudson View Restaurant (a bit further south)
- Casual diner with comfort food options, perfect for a quick bite after visiting the museum.
Exploring Fort Tryon Park
- Hudson River Views: The Cloisters overlooks the Hudson River, offering breathtaking views.
- Heather Garden: Just a short walk from the museum, this garden blooms year-round with colorful flowers and plants.
- Walking Trails: Take a walk along the peaceful paths of Fort Tryon Park, ideal for nature lovers.
Practical Information for Visitors
Hours and Admission
- Hours:
- Open 10 AM–5 PM most days; check for closures on holidays.
- Admission:
- Admission is included with the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s general admission ticket.
- Suggested donation policy for NYC residents and students.
How to Get There
- Subway:
- Take the A train to 190th Street; from there, it’s a short walk or a free elevator ride to Fort Tryon Park.
- Bus:
- The M4 bus stops near the museum entrance.
- Driving:
- Limited street parking available; some visitors prefer to use rideshares or taxis.
Best Time to Visit The Cloisters
- Spring and Summer: The gardens are in full bloom, making it the most popular time to visit.
- Autumn: Enjoy the changing foliage in Fort Tryon Park for a picturesque backdrop.
- Winter: Fewer crowds, and holiday events create a magical atmosphere, especially during the medieval music concerts.
Tips for Visiting The Cloisters
- Plan Ahead: The museum isn’t very large, so allocate around 2-3 hours to fully explore.
- Combine with a Park Walk: After visiting, take a stroll through Fort Tryon Park to enjoy the scenery.
- Guided Tours: Take advantage of docent-led tours to deepen your understanding of the exhibits.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: The Cloisters involve walking on stone floors and uneven paths in the gardens.
- Check the Weather: The gardens are a major attraction, so it’s ideal to visit when the weather is pleasant.
Nearby Attractions
- The Little Red Lighthouse: Located along the Hudson River Greenway, this historic lighthouse is a scenic stop for a walk or bike ride.
- The Dyckman Farmhouse Museum: A colonial-era farmhouse offering a glimpse into Manhattan’s rural past.
- Inwood Hill Park: Just north of The Cloisters, this park offers forested trails, river views, and Native American history.
Conclusion
The Cloisters offers a one-of-a-kind cultural experience, combining art, history, and nature in a serene setting. Whether you’re an art lover, history enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat in New York City, The Cloisters delivers a memorable visit. With its spectacular art collection, tranquil gardens, and architectural beauty, this hidden gem in Upper Manhattan is well worth the trip.
