Christ’s College

Founded in 1437 as God’s House Christ’s College stands before you a testament to history. Its name changed in 1505. Lady Margaret Beaufort a pivotal figure endowed the college. She transformed God’s House into Christ’s College. This act cemented its place among Cambridge’s most prestigious institutions. Imagine the bustling activity of students scholars and visitors. The college thrived. Its location on St Andrew’s Street ensured prominence. The original buildings including the chapel and Master’s Lodge remain. They are part of First Court. Notice the Great Gate tower. Its bottom is disproportionate. This is because the street level rose. The steps leading down to the base of L staircase show the change. The round lawn of First Court is famous. A wisteria vine gracefully climbs the Master’s Lodge. Christ’s College expanded significantly. The Fellows’ Building in Second Court dates back to the 1640s. Third Court boasts the Stevenson Building. It was extended in 1905. Professor Albert Richardson added a cupola in 1947. He also designed the Blyth Building now known as The Chancellor’s Building. The Memorial Building in Third Court is its twin. Third Court’s beauty includes irises. They bloom in May and June. A gift to the college in 1946 they brighten the court. New Court often called “the Typewriter” is more modern. Sir Denys Lasdun designed it in a Modernist style between 1966 and 1970. Its distinctive shape is visible from above. It forms the northern boundary. The Todd Building a former County Hall is now part of the college. The Fellows’ Garden boasts two mulberry trees. One planted in 1608 the year John Milton was born. Both trees have toppled but continue to bear fruit. Christ’s College has its own swimming pool. This is rare. Only five colleges in Oxford or Cambridge have one. It’s fed by Hobson’s Conduit. Refurbished recently it’s called the Malcolm Bowie Bathing Pool. It’s possibly Britain’s oldest outdoor pool. Its academic reputation is outstanding. It consistently ranks high. Its alumni include Charles Darwin and John Milton. Nobel laureates such as Martin Evans and Alexander Todd also studied here. Student life is vibrant. The JCR and MCR host events and balls. The May Ball is a highlight. Its themes vary each time reflecting culture and history. The college grace is unique. Students do not rise when fellows enter or leave. This tradition stems from a historical conflict during the English Civil War. Christ’s College. A place where history intellect and tradition intertwine. A truly unforgettable Cambridge experience.