Gazing up at St Mary Magdalene, can you imagine the echoes of prayers whispered through centuries? This Anglican church stands as a testament to faith and resilience in the heart of Cambridge. It is a place where history and spirituality intertwine.
St Mary Magdalene’s story is closely tied to Magdalene College. The college was founded in 1428 as a hostel for Benedictine monks. They sought a secluded spot away from the town’s temptations. The church’s dedication to Mary Magdalene links it to the college’s refoundation in 1542. Thomas Audley, Lord Chancellor under Henry VIII, renamed it the College of St Mary Magdalene.
The chapel within Magdalene College is a gem. Its original construction dates back to 1470-72. Restoration work has preserved its original roof. Artwork inside depicts the story of Mary Magdalene. The east wall’s glass windows show her encounters with Jesus Christ. These include anointing him and witnessing his crucifixion. The windows show her weeping at his tomb and recognizing him after his resurrection.
Compared to other Cambridge colleges, Magdalene’s chapel is smaller. Yet, its proportions mirror those of other medieval Oxbridge chapels. Its layout reflects Solomon’s Temple. The ratio of antechapel choir and sanctuary is 1:4:2. In 2000, a new Baroque-style pipe organ was installed. Goetze & Gwynn built it.
Magdalene College has a rich history beyond its chapel. It was initially called Monks’ Hostel. Henry Stafford renamed it Buckingham College later. Thomas Audley refounded it in 1542. His arms and motto Garde Ta Foy were adopted. Garde Ta Foy means keep your faith.
Over the centuries Magdalene College has seen its share of drama. Thomas Audley died only two years after refounding the college. He donated property in London which could have brought enormous income. However, Benedict Spinola alienated it to the Crown. This plunged the college into poverty.
Samuel Pepys joined Magdalene in 1650. He is remembered for his diaries. These provide eyewitness accounts of the Great Fire of London. The Pepys Library houses his manuscripts and naval records.
In 1988 Magdalene College became co-residential. Some male undergraduates protested this change. They wore black armbands. They flew the college flag at half-mast.
Today Magdalene College is known for its traditional style. Formal hall dinners are held by candlelight every evening.
The college’s location was carefully chosen. It stands on the northwestern side of the River Cam. This secluded the Benedictine monks. Magdalene was the first Cambridge college built on this side of the river.
The buildings of Magdalene College reflect its growth. They transformed from a monks’ foundation into a center of education. Most old buildings are brick. The Pepys Building is an exception with its stone frontage.
As you leave St Mary Magdalene consider the lives touched by this place. It is a sanctuary of learning faith and tradition that continues to shape the future.