Christ's College

Christ's College can trace its origins back to 1439 when it was founded by William Byngham as "God's-house" and adopted by King Henry VI. When the King required its site for the chapel of his own King's College in 1448 "The Lord King's College of God's-house" moved to its present location outside Barnwell Gate.

Lady Margaret Beaufort, mother of Henry VII, refounded the college in 1505 and renamed the college "Christ's". She laid out the beautiful First Court, the Great Gate of which can be found in St. Andrew's Street.

The college has developed over nearly five centuries and now comprises four courts. These contain fine buildings of many styles and periods including the fifteenth century Chapel and Master's Lodge, the stately Fellows' Building, completed just before the Civil War, and some striking examples of twentieth century architecture.

As one of the University's oldest colleges, there is a chance to rub shoulders with history at every turn. The college cherishes its links with the past and its learned heritage as the college of Milton and Darwin. A fine collection of portraits of famous Fellows and students can be found in the Hall.