Middlesex County Courthouse

Middlesex County Courthouse is a judicial building in East Cambridge built with Federal and Greek Revival architecture. The most striking features are the monumental cupola, Palladian windows, and recessed wall arches visible across the facade.

Charles Bulfinch designed the original building between 1814 and 1816 as a classical judicial center. Ammi B. Young later carried out a significant transformation in 1848, enlarging the structure substantially.

The building forms a connected judicial cluster with the Registry of Deeds, Probate Court, and Clerk of Courts Building in Bulfinch Square. Visitors can observe the rhythm of court activity and public movement through the monumental spaces.

The courthouse operates Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM and offers free parking in an adjacent lot for visitors. Plan your visit for weekdays and note that hours may differ on holidays.

The building nearly faced demolition in 1973, but Graham Gund championed its preservation and saved it from destruction. His restoration work brought Young's entrance portico and the clock tower back to their former grandeur.

GPS coordinates: 42.36990,-71.07970

Latest update: December 13, 2025 17:01