Jaunted

· The university district. Glasgow University is one of the oldest universities in the English-speaking world, and their buildings are as rich with history as you'd expect. The memorial gates at the front of the university feature the names of distinguished alumni, including Wealth of Nations author Adam Smith, Donald Dewar, the first-ever Minister of Scotland, and feminist educator Isabella Elder.

· Glaswegians are also quite proud of being Scottish, and their Hunterian Museum focuses on scientific achievements by famous Scots dating back to the Roman era. The nearby Hunterian Art Gallery emphasizes Scottish artists like Whistler and Mackintosh (whose home is partly reassembled here).

· A short walk from the university is Glasgow Cathedral. Built in 1136, this Church of Scotland building is famed for its collection of stained glass windows. They’re not all ancient, though—one of the most famous of the windows is the Milennium Window, commissioned in 1999. The artist, John K. Clark, was a Glasgow University art student when he was chosen to undertake the project. The church is dedicated to St. Mungo, the patron saint of Glasgow.

· The nearby Necropolis (City of the Dead) cemetery is full of Instagram-ready architecture. It’s also one of the only cemeteries in the world that kept thorough records of everyone buried there, so for history buffs it’s an easy but thorough way to learn the history of Glasgow and the people who lived there. Among the famous names you’ll find are the industrialist Charles Tennant and the poet William Miller (he wrote “Wee Willie Winkie,” as mentioned on his tombstone).

· Since it will most likely be chilly during your visit to Glasgow, a nice way to finish up the day is with a pot of tea at Tchai Ovna, one of the city’s most beloved tea houses. The Otago Street location is close to the university and a popular student hangout, although you might find that your favorite table has been taken over by the resident cat, who gets his pick of cozy sleeping spots. Their almost encyclopedia-length menu will feel pretty overwhelming, so if you want to try multiple teas you can also buy some in their online shop.

Read Part 2 here!

The Necropolis at sunset

[Photos: rojabro & dkloi]