Girton College Chapel

Did the Girton College Chapel always envision echoing with hymns and prayers? Surprisingly, no. The early days of Girton College, founded in 1869 as the first women’s college in Cambridge, saw heated debates about even having a chapel. Baroness Stanley of Alderley, a key benefactor, believed funds should prioritize staff salaries and equipment, not a chapel. Her influence delayed construction for years. Emily Davies, a founder of the college, strongly desired a chapel. However, it wasn’t until 1899, four years after Baroness Stanley’s death, that construction finally began. The Girton College Chapel, designed by Alfred and Paul Waterhouse, was completed in 1901 and inaugurated in 1902. It’s a testament to the evolving vision of Girton College, reflecting both the practical needs of its early days and its growing spiritual aspirations. Inside the Girton College Chapel, the design is strikingly simple. Seating around 200, the space is adorned with intricate oak carvings at the Chancel end and two long desks. These carvings are particularly special, crafted by the mathematician Margaret Meyer, along with students and friends of the college. This detail adds a touch of personal history to the chapel’s grand narrative. Another hidden gem within the Girton College Chapel is its impressive collection of organs. The original Harrison & Harrison organ, installed in 1910, is still in use today, its rich tones filling the chapel for over a century. A second organ, acquired in 2002, further enhances the musical landscape of this sacred space. The Girton College Chapel isn’t just a place for traditional Anglican services. Reflecting Girton’s inclusive ethos, it hosts a variety of religious services and is open for quiet reflection, prayer, or meditation for everyone, regardless of faith. The stained-glass window, added in 1952, depicts scenes from the Passion of Christ and the Tree of Jesse, a visual narrative that adds another layer of meaning to the chapel’s story. Even if stained glass isn’t usually your thing, the artistry and symbolism are captivating.