Christ Church

Did you ever imagine a college being a cathedral too? Here at Christ Church in Oxford, that’s exactly what you’ll find. Christ Church isn’t just any college. It’s a unique blend of academia and worship, established in 1546 by King Henry VIII. Originally, this very spot held St Frideswide’s Priory. Cardinal Wolsey, at the peak of his influence, decided this would be the perfect place for his grand Cardinal College. He had big plans, envisioning a magnificent structure, but his fall from grace in 1529 left the building incomplete. Henry VIII then acquired the property and, after refounding it as King Henry VIII’s College, he gave it its final form, Christ Church. He also decided to make the priory church the cathedral of the newly formed Diocese of Oxford. This dual role as both a college and a cathedral makes Christ Church a one-of-a-kind institution in the Church of England. Christ Church even has its own set of bells. The most famous, Great Tom, is rung 101 times every night at 9 pm Oxford time. This tradition commemorates the original scholars of the college. From Norman architecture to Perpendicular styles, Christ Church boasts a mix of architectural features. Notice the stunning rose window. It’s a ten-part, or botanical, style. Inside, you’ll discover treasures like the shrine of St. Frideswide, now in the Latin Chapel. It was once a major pilgrimage site. Christ Church has educated some notable figures, including thirteen British Prime Ministers. Even literary giants like Lewis Carroll have walked these halls. In fact, his famous Alice in Wonderland was inspired by Alice Liddell, the daughter of the college’s dean at the time. Christ Church also has a thriving musical tradition. A choir has graced its cathedral since 1526 when the renowned John Taverner served as both organist and master of the choristers. Today, Christ Church continues to blend education and spirituality, a testament to its rich history.