King’s college chapel is an active house of worship and home of the world famous King’s College Choir. It is the architectural jewel of both the City and the University of Cambridge. Both use it as their iconic symbol. Truly a “must see” on any visit to Cambridge.
Although I have visited the Chapel many times in the past, my recent visit of a couple hours was the most exhaustive, exploring each side chapel filled with historical references.
RAINBOW OVER KING’S COLLEGE CHAPEL
Without the benefit of a tripod, I recall getting soaked lying on the wet grass and stabilising the camera on my backpack to grab this once in a lifetime image after a sudden downfall during a previous visit.
KING’S COLLEGE CHAPEL AS SEEN FROM GREAT SAINT MARY’S CHURCH BELL TOWER
My ears were ringing when I was caught unawares by St. Mary’s pealing bells just feet away at the moment of capture.
CHANCEL WITH CHOIR STALLS
The Christmas Eve service by the King’s Choir is broadcast round the world. Years ago as a student I was most fortunate to obtain a rare ticket to the pre Christmas eve recital which had been parceled out to all of the colleges. Changed my favourite Christmas carol from “Good King Wenceslas” to Holst’s “In the Bleak Midwinter”.
The 16th-century stained glass, depicting biblical scenes, is among the most significant in Europe, especially renowned for its vivid colours and intricate details.
ADORATION OF THE MAGI, PETER PAUL RUBENS
CEILING FAN VAULTING WITH TONS OF LIMESTONE SEEMINGLY DEFYING GRAVITY
An extraordinary feat of engineering!! It is the largest fan vault in the world and showcases the craftsmanship of the Gothic era.
OAK ROOD SCREEN, GIFT OF KING HENRY VIII
16th CENTURY PIPE ORGAN
CARVED HENRY VIII INSIGNIA WHICH FESTOONS THE OAK SCREEN
In British heraldry the R stands for Rex
THE SOLITARY REFERENCE TO THE BRIEF UNION OF HENRY VIII AND ANNE BOLEYN
This carved heraldry emblem provides an accurate dating of the oak screen gift. Henry and Anne were wed in 1530 and she was beheaded in 1533. Try and find this historical oddity on your next visit.
HANGING LIMESTONE VOUSSOIR
For those interested in Cambridge in general, you are invited to peruse my photobook, “Sublime Cambridge“: