With its immeasurable size and plethora of historical spots, it is fair to say one can truly never stop exploring New York City’s many treasures. If you are looking to get away from the main galleries and exhibitions on museum mile around the upper east side, it may be time for you to explore the beauty of what is known as the “The Met Cloisters” in the secluded area in Upper Manhattan’s Fort Tryon Park.

Situated in an area overlooking the Hudson River, Fort Tryon Park is single handedly one of the most beautiful, remote areas in the New York City area.

A museum focusing mostly on European medieval architecture, John D. Rockefeller acquired its early collection in 1925 from the artist and collector George Grey Barnard. Generally speaking, the works at the Met Cloisters range from the Gothic and Romanesque periods which were then reconstructed in Washington Heights. The layout of the four cloisters consists of French monasteries, abbeys and Spanish/Gothic rooms so visitors can experience monastic life during that time period.

The art collections at the Cloisters predominantly is made up of European medieval art, and there are stunning outdoor/enclosed gardens that are absolutely perfect for wandering and reading in the late summer or fall.

Some rooms in the artistic complex have religious artifacts (bibles, altars, etc) dating back thousands of years, and a painting that you really should take the time to see is the highly acclaimed Unicorn Tapestries from the late 13th century Netherlands.

One area of the Cloisters that you really cannot miss is the chapel from 12th century Segovia, Spain called the San Martín at Fuentidueña. The chapel’s overwhelming size and beautiful, detailed arches truly make you feel as though you have travelled back in time to Medieval Spain.

While there is no set rate for admission at the Met Cloisters, they suggest that you donate around 15 dollars. Visit this link for more information.