3. Rotunda and Central Grounds

UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA.   The heart and soul of the Grounds (as students refer to the UVA campus), the classically-designed Rotunda and the accompanying "academic village" were created by university founder Thomas Jefferson in the early 19th century. The Rotunda, which Jefferson modeled after the Roman Parthenon, stands as the university's most photographed structure. Behind it is an area referred to as "the Lawn," a public green area flanked on two sides by student dwellings, creating the aforementioned academic village. Adjacent is the Range (some of the more coveted student housing), wherein the young Edgar Allan Poe boarded (in West Range Room 13) while attending the university. Guided Central Grounds tours depart daily from the Rotunda.   (© 10Best)

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