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The John Rylands Library

Museum4.8 · 1 7564.7 · 5 672≈ 1 h 30 minFree entry4.4 km from the center

A masterpiece of Victorian late-Gothic architecture on Deansgate, this library opened in 1900, commissioned by Enriqueta Rylands in memory of her industrialist husband. Designed by Basil Champneys, the building resembles a Gothic cathedral: the soaring Historic Reading Room features vaulted stone ceilings, stained-glass windows, and statues of scholars. The library houses priceless treasures, including the St John Papyrus fragment.

Highlights

  • Magnificent cathedral-like Historic Reading Room with stone vaulting
  • Masterpiece of Victorian neo-Gothic design by Basil Champneys
  • Rare manuscript collection including the famed St John Papyrus

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