Hark, travelers! Have you seen Oxford’s oldest building? It is the Saxon Tower. This ancient tower stands tall as part of St. Michael at the North Gate church.
Now, let’s delve into the Saxon Tower’s history. Built around 1040, the Saxon Tower is Oxford’s oldest structure. It is an amazing example of Anglo-Saxon architecture. The Saxon Tower marks a time when Oxford was emerging in Anglo-Saxon England.
The church was strategically positioned inside the old city wall’s North Gate. Imagine the Saxon Tower guarding the city. Only the Saxon Tower remains of the original church.
Look closely at the tower’s strange, door-like windows high up. Architectural historians believe priests used these windows to display relics. The priests showed them to the crowds below. Picture the scene of standing in an open doorway high above the street.
As you stand here, note that the more modern church retains medieval elements. See the 13th-century stained glass in the chancel’s east window. Admire the 15th-century font. The lady chapel and north transept date to the 14th century. The north aisle and nave are from the 15th century. The observant visitor will spot fine old details, despite restorations over the years.
The Oxford Martyrs were imprisoned near the Saxon Tower. They were held in the Bocardo Prison before being burnt at the stake. This happened in what is now Broad Street. The executions took place just outside the city walls in 1555 and 1556. You can see their cell door on display in the Saxon Tower.
Do you know about the interesting tradition about the boundary of the parish? A ceremony called “beating the bounds” occurs each Ascension Day. The vicar leads parishioners around the old boundary stones. The vicar marks each with a chalk cross. Church wardens hit the stones with willow wands. They shout “Mark, mark, mark!” as they do so.
William Morris and Jane Burden married here on April 25, 1859. They lived off Holywell Street. You can view their marriage certificate in the Saxon Tower.
Take the challenge and climb the Saxon Tower’s 97 steps. Your efforts will be rewarded. Panoramic views of Oxford await. You will see colleges, churches, and cobbled streets. From the top of the Saxon Tower, you get a great view.
The entire Saxon Tower is open to the public. You can examine the bells. There is a small museum. You can also observe a 19th-century clock mechanism. Drop a coin in to watch it come to life!
The Saxon Tower of St Michael at the North Gate stands as a testament to Oxford’s rich past. It links us to Anglo-Saxon times. It reminds us of the city’s historical and cultural importance.