Captured Moments from the Heart of Oxford

THESE ARE the Oldest PhotoS on my Phone, taken may 20 2023, in Oxford, Great Britain, where I and my friend Magnus were on a short vacation. In these pictures we are upp in the belltower of The University Church of St Mary the Virgin, located in the heart of Oxford, it is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Dating back to the 13th century, this historic church has played a central role in the life of the University of Oxford. It was originally the university's first building, where lectures, ceremonies, and even early exams were held. The church is known for its stunning Gothic architecture, including its beautiful spire, which towers over Oxford's skyline at 127 feet.

Visitors to the church can climb the narrow spiral staircase to the top of the spire, where they are rewarded with panoramic views of Oxford's "dreaming spires." From here, you can see many of the university's famous buildings, including the Radcliffe Camera, All Souls College, and the Bodleian Library.

Inside, the church boasts a richly decorated interior, with intricate woodwork, stained glass windows, and a striking pulpit. The University Church remains a vibrant part of Oxford's community, hosting services, concerts, and lectures throughout the year. Its historical significance, combined with its architectural beauty, makes it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Oxford.

All Souls College, founded in 1438 by Henry Chichele, Archbishop of Canterbury, is one of the most prestigious and unique colleges at the University of Oxford. Unlike other colleges, All Souls is exclusively for graduate fellows, making it a center for advanced research and intellectual inquiry. Admission to the college is famously competitive, with only a few new fellows selected each year through a rigorous examination process known as "The Examination Fellowship" or "The Prize Fellowship."

The college’s architecture is both grand and serene, with its main quadrangle and chapel standing out as remarkable examples of late Gothic style. The chapel is particularly noted for its stunning reredos and impressive stained glass windows. The Codrington Library, built in the 18th century, houses an extensive collection of rare books and manuscripts, and is one of the most beautiful libraries in Oxford.

All Souls is also known for its traditions, such as the annual "All Souls Mallard" ceremony, which is a quirky, centuries-old celebration. The college's focus on academic excellence and research, combined with its rich history and traditions, makes All Souls College a unique and revered institution within the University of Oxford.

Magnus in the belltower. The bell tower of the University Church of St Mary the Virgin is one of Oxford's most remarkable features, standing tall in the heart of the city. Dating back to the 13th century, this historic church has been at the center of university life for centuries. The tower, with its iconic Gothic spire soaring to 127 feet, is not only a symbol of the church but also of Oxford's skyline, often referred to as the city's "dreaming spires."

Climbing the bell tower is a must for visitors. The narrow, winding staircase offers a sense of adventure as you ascend to the top, where you're rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Oxford. From this vantage point, you can see the architectural marvels of the city, including the Radcliffe Camera, All Souls College, and the Bodleian Library. The view is particularly stunning at sunrise or sunset, when the golden light bathes the city in a warm, ethereal glow.

The bell tower itself is steeped in history. It has witnessed countless university events, from ceremonies to early exams, and its bells have rung out over Oxford for centuries. The tower is a testament to the enduring legacy of the University Church of St Mary the Virgin, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the rich history and beauty of Oxford.

Oxford highstreet, as seen from the tower. In the distance you can see Magdalen Tower. Magdalen Tower is one of Oxford’s most iconic landmarks, standing tall as a symbol of the city’s rich history and academic excellence. Located at Magdalen College, which was founded in 1458, the tower was completed in 1509 and remains one of the finest examples of Perpendicular Gothic architecture in England. Rising to a height of approximately 144 feet, it dominates the eastern entrance to Oxford and offers breathtaking views over the city's "dreaming spires."

The tower is particularly famous for its association with May Morning, a traditional celebration that dates back to the 16th century. Each year on May 1st, the Magdalen College Choir ascends the tower at dawn to sing hymns, including the famous "Hymnus Eucharisticus," marking the arrival of spring. This event draws large crowds, who gather below the tower and along the River Cherwell to listen to the music and celebrate the day.

In addition to its cultural significance, Magdalen Tower houses a set of ten bells, which are rung for special occasions and services. The tower's rich history, architectural beauty, and continued role in Oxford’s traditions make it a must-see for visitors to the city.

Oxford High Street is one of the most vibrant and historic thoroughfares in the city of Oxford, England. Stretching from Carfax Tower in the west to Magdalen Bridge in the east, it serves as a central artery of the city, rich in both architectural beauty and bustling activity.

Lined with a mix of ancient college buildings, churches, and charming shops, Oxford High Street is a visual delight. The street is home to some of Oxford’s most iconic landmarks, including the University Church of St Mary the Virgin, which offers stunning views of the city from its tower. The High Street also passes by All Souls College, Queen’s College, and University College, each with its own unique history and architectural style.

The street’s vibrant atmosphere is enhanced by a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The blend of traditional and modern establishments offers everything from rare books and academic paraphernalia to trendy fashion and gourmet food.

Oxford High Street is more than just a road; it’s a microcosm of the city’s rich history and dynamic present, embodying the timeless charm and intellectual vibrancy that Oxford is known for.

Oxford High street. In the distance you can see Tom Tower at Christ Church College, one of Oxford's most renowned and historic institutions, founded in 1546 by King Henry VIII. It is both a college of the University of Oxford and the cathedral of the Diocese of Oxford, making it unique among Oxford's colleges. Christ Church has been at the heart of British academic and political life for centuries, counting numerous prime ministers, poets, and other prominent figures among its alumni, including Lewis Carroll and W.H. Auden.

One of the most iconic features of Christ Church is Tom Tower, a grand bell tower that serves as the main entrance to the college. Designed by Sir Christopher Wren and completed in 1682, Tom Tower stands as a symbol of Oxford's architectural grandeur. The tower houses "Great Tom," a bell weighing over six tons, which strikes 101 times every evening at 9:05 PM to signify the original number of students at the college.

The tower's design combines classical and Gothic elements, showcasing Wren's architectural genius. Tom Tower not only serves as an important part of the college's history but also as a defining feature of Oxford's skyline, drawing visitors from around the world to admire its beauty and historical significance.