| The first buildings at Downing College were erected in 1807-1812 according to the designs of William Wilkins (1775-1839) who was inspired by the buildings he had seen in Greece. Quinlan Terry's building, a Greek Revival monument, continues in that tradition. The library was named after J.W.C. Maitland Robinson, a Downing graduate, whose gift enabled the construction of a purpose-built library for the first time in Downing's history. It is located just beyond the main entrance to Downing College--a site that was somewhat controversial. | ||
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Distant viewThis two-story square block has on its south front a Greek Doric portico modelled on the Portico of Augustus in Athens while the octagonal lantern on the pyramidal roof is intended to recall the Athenian Tower of the Winds. | |
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The staircaseThe staircase is situated in the center of the building in a two-story octagonal hall under the lantern. The interior is elegant Georgian in style. |
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