King's College Cambridge

Images of Britain: King's College, Cambridge

King's College in Cambridge is one of the most famous and historic colleges of the University of Cambridge, founded in 1441 by King Henry VI. Originally intended to educate a small number of scholars from Eton College, the college grew significantly over the centuries and became one of the university's most prestigious institutions.

Its most famous architectural feature is King's College Chapel, a masterpiece of late Gothic architecture. Built between 1446 and 1515, the chapel is renowned for its breathtaking fan-vaulted ceiling, the largest of its kind in the world, and its magnificent stained-glass windows, which date from the 16th century.

The chapel also houses the world-famous King's College Choir, which performs the annual Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, broadcast globally on Christmas Eve. Set along the River Cam, King's College remains a symbol of academic excellence and architectural grandeur.