Deciphering the name first. Magdalen College is pronounced “Mawdlen” despite its spelling.
Magdalen College is one of Oxford’s oldest, largest, and most beautiful colleges. William of Waynflete, Bishop of Winchester and Lord Chancellor, founded it in 1458. Imagine this prestigious college as a hub of scholarly excellence. It is an architectural gem with a warm community. Its extensive grounds include a deer park and Addison’s Walk.
Founded as Magdalen Hall, William of Waynflete acquired land beyond the city walls. He established a college dedicated to St Mary Magdalen. Waynflete wanted Magdalen College to be the largest and most impressive in Oxford. He provided an exceptional range of buildings. He set up a huge income to maintain 40 Fellows and 30 students.
Magdalen College has a rich history. It has also seen its share of turbulent times. King James II had Fellows expelled for disagreeing with his choice of College President.
Magdalen’s architecture is iconic. The Great Tower is one example. The college is known for its architecture. Its warm and welcoming community adds to its charm. The extensive grounds include a deer park, a Water Meadow, and Addison’s Walk.
The college has five quads. They include St John’s Quad, Great Quad, and Chaplain’s Quad. You can also find St Swithun’s Quad and Longwall Quad.
The Cloister or Great Quad is the medieval nucleus. It was built between 1474 and 1480. It is accessed through the Founder’s Tower. The southern side has the chapel and hall. There are also common rooms. Grotesques were added to the Cloister in 1508. They represent scholarly subjects and virtues.
Magdalen College’s Hall dates to the late 15th century. It showcases the architectural styles of that period. It has a high vaulted ceiling. Intricate wooden beams support it.
The Chapel is a High Anglican chapel. It reflects the Catholic Revival in the Church of England. Services are held daily during term. The stained-glass windows facing St John’s Quad depict the Last Judgement. They are painted in shades of grey.
The construction of Magdalen Tower started in 1492. It is 144 feet tall. It may have been intended to replace an earlier belfry. It was completed in 1509. Buildings were erected on its sides creating Chaplain’s Quad.
The New Building was constructed in 1733. It features a Palladian style inspired by Venetian architect Andrea Palladio. The original vision was never completed.
The Daubeny Laboratory was established around 1622. Charles Daubeny created it. He wanted it worthy of a great University. In 1973, most of Daubeny’s laboratory became graduate student accommodation.
Undergraduate students are guaranteed accommodation during term. Graduate students get at least two years of accommodation. There are cafeteria-style services each day in the hall.
Several clubs and societies exist. The Magdalen Players are a drama society. The Magdalen Music Society and the Magdalen Film Society also exist.
Magdalen College is located in the northern part of Oxford. Its main entrance is on High Street. It is near the River Cherwell.
Magdalen College has many famous alumni. They include Cardinal Thomas Wolsey and C.S. Lewis.
Ten individuals associated with Magdalen have been awarded Nobel Prizes. Eight were for science and medicine. One was for literature. Another was for economics.
Magdalen College is open to the public. Bookings are not required. Joint tickets are available for Magdalen and the Oxford Botanic Garden.