Great St Mary's
Sightseeing attraction | Cambridge | England | United Kingdom
Great St Mary's, officially known as the Church of St Mary the Great, is a significant church in the heart of Cambridge, England. It serves as both the university church of the University of Cambridge and the parish church for the town community. The church is an outstanding example of late Gothic Perpendicular architecture and was built between 1478 and 1519.
The origins of Great St Mary's date back to the 11th century, with the first foundations laid around 1010. The church was first mentioned in a document in 1205. Over the centuries, the church has been renovated and expanded multiple times, especially after a devastating fire in 1290.
Architecturally, the church is distinguished by its impressive tower, reaching a height of 34.7 meters. The tower was completed in 1608 and offers visitors who climb the 123 steps a breathtaking view of the city and university buildings.
Inside the church, there are notable features such as the galleries designed by James Gibbs and an unusual movable pulpit. Another historical highlight is the tomb of the Protestant reformer Martin Bucer.
Great St Mary's plays a central role in the academic and spiritual life of Cambridge. It is the official center of the city, from which all distances are measured, and historically has been a place where the university and townspeople come together.
The church is known for its carillon, known as the "Cambridge Quarters." This melody, composed in 1793, later served as the inspiration for the chimes of Big Ben in London.
Today, Great St Mary's is a vibrant place of worship, culture, and history. It regularly hosts services, concerts, and other events, welcoming visitors who wish to explore the rich history and architecture of the church.
