University Church of St Mary the Virgin

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University Church of St Mary the Virgin

University Church of St Mary the Virgin is actually from where Oxford University grew, and an un-missable spot if you’re visiting the city. A church was established on this site before 1068, and from at least 1252 the congregation has met here, adopting it as the first building of the University of Oxford. Believe it or not, in the early 13th century the church was actually used for lectures!

There are quite a few things to see if you visit this church, so here are the highlights you should look out for:

  • The Baroque porch: This porch was designed by Nicholas Stone and claims to be the most beautiful one in England!
  • The 13th-century tower: The tower is open to the public for a fee and offers excellent views of the city (especially of Radcliffe Camera, All Souls College, and Brasenose College). 

Where is the University Church of St Mary the Virgin?

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