Harvard Science Center, Boston
Behold, the colossal behemoth of academia, Harvard's Science Center, looming proudly before the New Yard. This structure, predominantly fashioned from steel, concrete, and glass, houses the hallowed halls where Harvard's most esteemed professors hold court. Legend has it that even the late, great evolutionary biologist Stephen Jay Gould graced these classrooms with his presence. As for its design, a whimsical myth persists that it was fashioned to resemble a camera, perhaps a nod to its association with Polaroid tycoon Edwin Land, one of its primary benefactors.. But let's be clear, any resemblance to photography equipment is purely coincidental – it's not secretly snapping photos of passing students.
For those with a passion for science, there's a small yet captivating Collection of Historical Scientific Instruments inside the center. This exhibit showcases a curated selection from the university's extensive collection of over 20,000 scientific items, some of which date back to the 15th century. Notable pieces include Galileo's geometric sector and clocks that illustrate the evolution of modern timekeeping. Interestingly, this collection was curated by none other than Benjamin Franklin, adding another accolade to his impressive résumé.
Tip:
The plaza situated between the Harvard Science Center and Harvard Yard is frequently used for various outdoor events. You might come across food trucks, an ice skating rink, or even a concert here. As for the Center itself, it serves as a convenient spot for a restroom break, with restrooms located in the basement.
For those with a passion for science, there's a small yet captivating Collection of Historical Scientific Instruments inside the center. This exhibit showcases a curated selection from the university's extensive collection of over 20,000 scientific items, some of which date back to the 15th century. Notable pieces include Galileo's geometric sector and clocks that illustrate the evolution of modern timekeeping. Interestingly, this collection was curated by none other than Benjamin Franklin, adding another accolade to his impressive résumé.
Tip:
The plaza situated between the Harvard Science Center and Harvard Yard is frequently used for various outdoor events. You might come across food trucks, an ice skating rink, or even a concert here. As for the Center itself, it serves as a convenient spot for a restroom break, with restrooms located in the basement.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Boston. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Harvard Science Center on Map
Sight Name: Harvard Science Center
Sight Location: Boston, USA (See walking tours in Boston)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Boston, USA (See walking tours in Boston)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Boston, Massachusetts
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Travel Distance: 3.5 Km or 2.2 Miles
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Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.0 Km or 0.6 Miles
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Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.1 Km or 1.3 Miles
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Travel Distance: 2.1 Km or 1.3 Miles
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Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.3 Km or 1.4 Miles
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Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.3 Km or 1.4 Miles
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