Cloisters Museum, New York

An extension of the Metropolitan Museum, the Cloisters stands as the sole museum in the U.S. dedicated entirely to medieval art. What sets it apart is not only the exceptional collection of masterworks but also the remarkably authentic setting that transports visitors to a remote corner of the Pyrenees or a castle-laden town in Bavaria. Established in 1934, the museum was constructed in the U.S. but incorporates 30% of its architectural elements—columns, pedestals, naves, doorframes, and exquisite stained-glass windows—from salvaged medieval European structures. This creates a mesmerizing illusion, enhanced by John D. Rockefeller's purchase of the land across the river to preserve the medieval aesthetic of the Cloisters' surroundings.

Central to the museum are four cloisters, garden areas adorned with fountains and encompassed by covered walkways reminiscent of those found in European monasteries and abbeys. Beyond these tranquil gardens, visitors can explore galleries dedicated to different periods of art and architecture. Each gallery showcases treasures from its respective era, ranging from peak-ceilinged Gothic chapels to squat Romanesque halls.

While it is possible to tour the entire museum in about 1h, special attention should be given to the Unicorn Tapestries. These remarkable tapestries, one of only two complete sets with a unicorn theme in the world (the other being in Paris), captivate with their intricate details. Interpreted in various ways, some scholars perceive the unicorn as a symbol of Christ, and the hunt to slay it as evocative of the Passion. Others view it as a metaphor for courtly love, where the hunt represents courtship and the last tapestry—depicting the unicorn enclosed within a ring-like fence—symbolizes marriage (despite its captivity, the unicorn appears content). Regardless of interpretation, the tapestries are undeniably stunning, providing a vivid glimpse into a past where nobles engaged in group hunts of six, and unicorns were believed to be real (hence the inclusion of a long narwhal tooth, which medieval people believed came from unicorns).

Another notable highlight resides within the climate-controlled Campin Room, where visitors can admire Robert de Campin's groundbreaking Merode altarpiece (circa 1425), which presents the Annunciation—the moment when an angel informs the Virgin Mary that she will bear the child of God—in a secular setting rather than a church. The altarpiece is particularly striking for its inclusion of Jewish objects, such as a prayer shawl and a vase with Hebrew-inspired lettering, signifying Mary's heritage. Adjacent to the Campin Room is the renowned Cloisters Cross, one of only three preserved ivory crosses from the 12th century. This intricately carved walrus tusk ivory cross features over 90 figures and inscriptions, showcasing remarkable craftsmanship.

Tip:
To enhance your visit, coordinate your tour with one of the curator-led gallery talks or garden walks, typically held during midday. These informative sessions provide valuable insights and enrich the overall experience of exploring the Cloisters' captivating exhibits.