Cambridge kings chapel

King's College Chapel in Cambridge is one of the finest examples of English Perpendicular Gothic architecture, renowned for its fan vault ceiling and Renaissance stained glass.

About this subject

King's College Chapel is the chapel of King's College, University of Cambridge, England. Its construction began in 1446 under King Henry VI and was completed only in 1515 during the reign of Henry VIII. The architectural design is attributed to masters such as Reginald Ely and John Wastell, who gave the chapel its characteristic Perpendicular Gothic style. The structure measures 88 meters in length and 12 meters in width, with a height of 24 meters to the ceiling.

The most striking feature is the fan vault ceiling, the largest in the world, built between 1512 and 1515. The stones were carved with precision to create a fan effect opening from the columns. The 26 stained glass windows, installed between 1509 and 1547, depict biblical scenes and figures from the Old and New Testaments, considered some of the finest Renaissance glasswork in Europe. The altarpiece, dating from 1635, is a painting by Rubens titled "The Adoration of the Magi."

The chapel is an iconic symbol of Cambridge and a must-see tourist destination. Its choir, the King's College Choir, is world-famous and performs regularly, especially the Christmas broadcast. The chapel also hosts religious services and concerts throughout the year. In 2015, the 500th anniversary of its completion was celebrated with special events.

Interestingly, despite its grandeur, the chapel has no external towers or pinnacles, which is unusual for Gothic architecture. The building was used as a hospital during the English Civil War and survived bombings in World War II without significant damage. Today, it is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, although the designation refers to the historic center of Cambridge as a whole.

Frequently Asked Questions

When was King's College Chapel built?

Construction began in 1446 under Henry VI and was completed in 1515 during the reign of Henry VIII.

What is the main architectural feature of the chapel?

The fan vault ceiling is the largest in the world, with carved stones forming a radial pattern from the columns.

What famous artwork is on the chapel's altar?

The high altar features the painting "The Adoration of the Magi" by Peter Paul Rubens, dated 1635.