Cole reads the info hanging around the tour waiting room.

Last Saturday, we finally made it over to the main University of Virginia grounds to see the Rotunda. On our campus tour, we got a UVA history lesson from a second year student. Our tour group was pretty little, just six, and half of them were students looking to try out for the guide position. Who knew it was such a sought after role.

We started our tour outside on the Lawn learning about the different pavilions and student quarters. Back in the days of Jefferson, he envisioned the university all working and living together. So, this space as created to make that happen. It only mildly happened at first, and with much difficulty. This included a professor getting shot, but then the upstanding students started an honor code that is still a vital, vibrant part of campus.

After that, got to go into the top of the Rotunda. Sadly, they were setting up an event, which hindered us from walking around to see the pretty space and books. Perhaps we will have to make it again before they close the place down for repairs.

And, in case you won't make it in time to see it either, enjoy these photos below and my University of Virginia Grounds album.

Someone is ready for a tour.

I did less reading and extra picture taking instead.

Thomas Jefferson.

Time to tour the Lawn.

It's a pretty place with all the white columns are bricks.

Little plaque recognizing one of the major secret societies.

Here's those students I mentioned who were on our tour. Look at them jotting down notes. Hope tryouts went well.

There it is: the Rotunda.

Hole in the ceiling like the Pantheon in Rome, but this one is covered in glass.

Keeping the staircase warm I guess.

Getting ready for a party, which we weren't invited to, so I guess no looking around.

Us, sans glasses.

Cole, what did you find there.

Well, it's this.

This place is a quite little spot by the Rotunda, which I am guessing will get a few benches and such once the grass grows back form construction destruction.

Hehe.

Happy Saturday!

Don't miss the additional photos in my University of Virginia Grounds album.