St. Mary the Great, Cambridge

St. Mary the Great, Cambridge. Known commonly as **Great St Mary's**, it is the University of Cambridge's official church and stands as a defining landmark on King's Parade. The present building, a masterwork of Perpendicular Gothic architecture, was constructed between the late 15th and early 16th centuries under the direction of master mason John Wastell. Its iconic tower offers panoramic views of the Cambridge University colleges and hosts the historic Cambridge University Guild of Change Ringers.

History

The site has been one of Christian worship since at least the 11th century, with earlier structures predating the Norman Conquest. The present church was begun in 1478 after a fire damaged its predecessor, with construction funded by notable figures including Margaret of Anjou and Richard III of England. The project spanned decades, with the tower finally completed in 1608 during the reign of James VI and I. The church has been central to university life for centuries, hosting the University of Cambridge's official ceremonies, including the inaugural sermons of new Vice-Chancellors. It was also a focal point during the English Reformation, with influential preachers like Hugh Latimer delivering sermons that challenged Papal authority.

Architecture

The architecture is a prime example of late Perpendicular Gothic style, characterized by its vast windows, slender pillars, and elaborate fan vaulting. The design is attributed to John Wastell, who also worked on the magnificent King's College Chapel, Cambridge. The west tower, a later addition, rises to 160 feet and is a prominent feature of the Cambridge skyline. The interior houses a notable Renaissance-style pulpit from 1804 and a magnificent organ case designed by the celebrated architect George Gilbert Scott. The church's spacious nave and aisles were specifically designed to accommodate the large university congregations that gathered for official University of Cambridge events and the renowned University Sermon.

Role in the University

As the official University of Cambridge church, its role is deeply embedded in academic tradition and governance. For over 500 years, it has been the venue for the annual "University Sermon" and the installation addresses of new Vice-Chancellors. Historically, all university members were required to attend services here, a statute that reinforced the church's centrality to collegiate life. It also served as the original home of the Cambridge University Press, with the first books printed in its vestry in the 1530s under a charter from Henry VIII. Today, it remains a key venue for official university services, including the annual Commemoration of Benefactors ceremony.

The Choir and Music

The musical tradition is upheld by the professional **Choir of Great St Mary's**, which sings Choral Evensong and services throughout the academic term. The choir frequently performs major works from the English cathedral music repertoire and collaborates with ensembles like the Academy of Ancient Music. The current organ, a four-manual instrument by Harrison & Harrison, is used for recitals and accompanies the choir. The church has a long association with notable composers, including Charles Villiers Stanford, who was organist in the 1870s before his tenure at Trinity College, Cambridge. The building's superb acoustics make it a popular venue for concerts and recordings.

The Churchyard

The original churchyard, now largely paved over to form part of Market Hill, was once a bustling center of city life. It hosted the historic Stourbridge Fair, granted a charter by King John, which grew into one of the largest Medieval fairs in Europe. The area was also a common site for public proclamations and gatherings. While most gravestones have been removed, the churchyard's history is commemorated by plaques, and it remains a busy public thoroughfare connecting the commercial heart of Cambridge with the historic university precincts around Senate House and Gonville and Caius College.

Category:Church of England church buildings in Cambridgeshire Category:University of Cambridge Category:Perpendicular Gothic churches in England