Founded by
Thomas Jefferson, the first building was begun in 1817 and opened for instruction as the state university in 1825. Inspired by a number of Palladio's architectural drawings of Roman villages, Jefferson designed his 'academical village' around a court open to a distant view, suggestive of the possibilities of the educated mind. The Rotunda was modeled after Rome's Pantheon; historical tours of the Rotunda and Lawn are offered daily; no tours are given during holidays or exam periods. Free to the public. Parking is available at the Memorial Gym parking lot.