Killian Court

Killian Court is a rectangular green space at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology surrounded by classical-style academic buildings with stone facades. The Great Dome of Building 10 stands at the center as the dominant architectural feature.

The space was originally known as Front Campus when established in 1916, then renamed in 1974 to honor James Rhyne Killian Jr, the institute's tenth president. This change reflected a shift in how the institution recognized its own leadership and development.

The buildings surrounding the courtyard display carved Roman inscriptions bearing the names of scientists such as Newton, Franklin, and Darwin. These inscriptions show how the institution honors groundbreaking scientific thinkers and their lasting impact.

The space hosts the institute's annual graduation ceremonies and serves as an outdoor study area for students during pleasant weather. Visitors can freely explore the courtyard, though it is less crowded during weekdays when fewer events are happening.

The marble building facades feature carved Latin inscriptions using intentionally archaic letter forms, with the classical Roman 'V' replacing 'U'. This stylistic choice reflects the careful attention to classical elements in early twentieth-century academic design.

Location: Cambridge

Part of: Massachusetts Institute of Technology

GPS coordinates: 42.35861,-71.09139

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:46