3. Merton

This doorway in Merton College is on the north front of what was once St Alban Hall, which existed as an academic hall before the foundation of Merton and which became part of the College in 1549. The doorway bears the arms of Barnham and Gracebridge, flanked by twin pilasters of the Tuscan Order. It is believed to be the earliest renaissance architecture in Oxford and dates from 1599. St Alban Hall was largely remodelled at the beginning of the twentieth century, retaining the north front (where the door is located) but adding an additional storey.