Kings College Chapel
King's College Chapel is one of the most iconic buildings in the world, and is a splendid example of late Gothic architecture. It was started in 1446 by Henry VI and took over a century to build. It also has the largest fan vault ceiling in the world as well as some of the finest medieval stained glass. The chapel has a central role in Cambridge College life and was originally built as a place of daily worship for the College scholars, and today the choir still sing evensong during term time.
Parker Library
The Parker Library, named after Archbishop Matthew Parker (1504-1575) is a treasure house of Medieval and Renaissance manuscripts and early printed books. The magnificent collection housed in the library was given to the College by Parker and includes the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle, principal source book for early English history, and the best manuscript of Chaucer's Troilus.
Emmanuel College
Emmanuel College, founded by Sir Walter Mildmay in 1584, is in the heart of Cambridge and one of the larger colleges with extensive grounds which are both beautiful and peaceful. The University buildings range from the medieval to the late twentieth century and the gardens have extensive lawns, magnificent trees and ponds that are home to a large number of ducks.
Fitzwilliam Museum
The Fitzwilliam Museum has been described as "one of the greatest art collections of the nation and a monument of the first importance" and owes its foundation to Richard VII Viscount Fitzwilliam of Merrion who in 1816 bequeathed to the University of Cambridge his works of art and library. Fitzwilliam's bequest included 144 pictures, some of which he inherited through his maternal grandfather and the masterpieces by Titian, Veronese and Palma Vecchio. Highlights at the museum include masterpieces of paintings from the fourteenth century to the present day, drawings and prints, sculptures, furniture and pottery.
St John's College
St John's is one of the largest and oldest colleges in Cambridge and former students include famous business and political leaders as well as renowned scientists and artists. It was first founded in 1511 by Lady Margaret Beaufort, the mother of King Henry VII, who began the process of transforming the ancient hospital of St John the Evangelist into a college for students in the liberal arts and theology. Over the years the number of students grew and put pressure on the existing accommodation which eventually led to the building of the Second Court 1599-1601, the first major expansion of the College.