Harvard Square
Overview
Harvard Square is a historic and vibrant area in Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States. It is located at the intersection of Massachusetts Avenue, Brattle Street, and John F. Kennedy Street. It is the historic center of Cambridge, and is named after the prestigious Harvard University, which is adjacent to the square. The square is a popular tourist destination, known for its unique blend of commercial businesses, historic sites, and cultural institutions.
History
Harvard Square was originally settled in 1630 as Newtowne, the first village of the Massachusetts Bay Colony. In 1638, the village was chosen as the site of Harvard College (now Harvard University), and was renamed Cambridge in honor of the university in Cambridge, England. The square itself has been the center of Cambridge life since the 18th century, and has seen significant changes over the centuries, from a rural village, to a bustling suburban center, to its current status as a vibrant urban hub.
Architecture
The architecture of Harvard Square is diverse, reflecting its long history and the influence of Harvard University. The square contains examples of many architectural styles, from the colonial-era houses on Brattle Street, known as "Tory Row," to the modernist design of the Graduate School of Design's Gund Hall. The square is also home to a number of significant buildings, including the First Parish Church, the oldest church in Cambridge, and the Harvard Coop, a cooperative society owned by students and alumni of Harvard and MIT, which operates a bookstore in the square.
Culture and Entertainment
Harvard Square is a cultural hub, with a wide range of entertainment options. The square is home to a number of bookstores, including the Harvard Coop and the independent Harvard Book Store, as well as a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars. The square also hosts a number of annual events, such as the MayFair, Oktoberfest, and the Harvard Square Holiday Fair. In addition, the square is home to several theaters, including the American Repertory Theater, one of the country's leading contemporary theaters, and the Brattle Theatre, an independent cinema that specializes in foreign and independent films.
Transportation
Harvard Square is a major transportation hub. The square is served by the MBTA, with a subway station on the Red Line and numerous bus routes. The square is also a hub for bicycle traffic, with several bike lanes and bike-sharing stations. In addition, the square is a popular destination for pedestrians, with its wide sidewalks, pedestrian plazas, and numerous shops and restaurants.