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Church · Cambridge, Inglaterra
King's College Chapel
The Gothic chapel of King's College, built between 1446 and 1515, with the largest stone fan vault in the world, 16th‑century stained glass windows and Rubens' Adoration of the Magi on the altar.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About King's College Chapel
King's College chapel is the best‑known building in Cambridge. It was commissioned by King Henry VI, who founded the college in 1441, and took nearly 70 years to complete, from 1446 to 1515, spanning five reigns and the Wars of the Roses. It is a major example of English Perpendicular Gothic, with walls almost entirely of glass set between slender columns.
The stone fan vault, completed in 1515 by master builder John Wastell, is the largest in the world in this style, about 88 metres long without internal columns. The 26 side windows contain early 16th‑century stained glass with scenes from the Old and New Testaments, and they escaped destruction in the 17th‑century civil war. The wooden screen between the nave and the choir, with the organ above, was a gift from Henry VIII and bears his and Anne Boleyn's initials.
On the altar is Rubens' Adoration of the Magi, painted in 1634 and donated to the college in 1961. A side exhibition tells the story of the building's construction.
The King's College choir, made up of choristers and students, sings Evensong on several days a week during term, and on Christmas Eve performs the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, broadcast on radio since 1928. The chapel may be closed for rehearsals, exams and ceremonies; entry is paid and includes the college court.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Allow 45 minutes to 1 hour for the chapel and King's College court.
Best time
In the morning on weekdays, or late afternoon for Evensong, which can be attended without a ticket. Check the college website for closures due to exams, rehearsals and events.
How to get there
It is on King's Parade in central Cambridge, a 3‑minute walk from the market square and about 25 minutes' walk from the train station, or 10 minutes by bus.
Tip
Attend Evensong in the late afternoon to hear the choir inside the chapel. On the other side of the river, in the Backs, you get the view of the chapel over the lawn.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about King's College Chapel
What's special about the capela do King's College?
The largest stone fan vault in the world, the 16th-century stained glass, and Rubens's Adoration of the Magi on the altar.
How to hear the choir of the King's College?
At Evensong, in the late afternoon, on several days a week during term, with no ticket required.
Does the capela open every day?
It is usually open most days, but may close for rehearsals, exams and ceremonies. Check the website.
Is there an admission fee?
Yes, the tourist visit is ticketed and includes the college courtyard.