The University of Melbourne’s Parkville campus pairs historic buildings with contemporary learning spaces, about a short distance from Melbourne’s city centre. Founded in 1853, it has leafy paths, gardens and places to sit outdoors, alongside architectural highlights such as the Old Quadrangle and the Glyn Davis Building’s heritage facade. Look for the hanging library and buildings designed to stay naturally cool. The campus is large, so a guided tour booked through the Visitor Centre can help you see its main landmarks efficiently.
A campus founded in 1853
The University of Melbourne was founded in 1853, as wealth from the gold rush was flowing into Victoria. Its Parkville campus brings together buildings from different periods, with historic architecture set alongside modern teaching and research spaces. The university is the oldest in Victoria and remains a familiar part of Melbourne’s cultural life.
The campus is large enough that deciding what to see before you arrive can make a visit easier. The Visitor Centre can arrange guided tours, which offer a way to explore key landmarks without choosing a route on your own.
Old Quadrangle and the Glyn Davis Building
The Old Quadrangle is one of the campus’s central historic landmarks. Its original building dates to 1854, a year after the university was founded. The northern edge of the campus also has original colleges, adding to the collection of older buildings.
A different story sits on the face of the Glyn Davis Building. Its gold rush-era facade was designed by architect Joseph Reed for the Bank of New South Wales building on Collins Street. After that building was demolished in 1932, the facade was given to the university. It now fronts the Melbourne School of Design building, whose interior is also notable.
Modern spaces and leafy paths
The campus is not limited to its historic exteriors. Modern learning spaces sit within older buildings, and visitors can look for the hanging library and buildings designed for natural cooling. Study areas provide places to pause, while gardens and deciduous trees add green space between buildings. Outdoor tables, chairs and other seating make it possible to take a break along the way.
If you want to focus on architecture, allow time to walk between different parts of the campus and compare the old facades with newer interiors. Visitors planning a photography session in halls of residence need to organise and pay for a permit in advance.
FAQ
Where is the University of Melbourne campus?
The main campus is in Parkville, Melbourne, at Parkville VIC 3010.
Can you take a guided tour of the campus?
Yes. Tours can be booked through the Visitor Centre and can help you navigate the large campus.
Do you need a permit for photography?
Photography in halls of residence requires a permit arranged and paid for in advance.
