Magnus at the belltower of The University Church of St Mary the Virgin. The tower of The University Church of St Mary the Virgin in Oxford is one of the city's most iconic landmarks. Standing 127 feet tall, this Gothic masterpiece dates back to the 13th century and has been a central feature of the university and the city for centuries. The tower's spire is a defining element of Oxford's skyline, often referred to as the "dreaming spires" that poet Matthew Arnold famously described.
Visitors to the church can climb the narrow spiral staircase of the tower, which leads to a breathtaking panoramic view of Oxford. From the top, you can see many of the university's most famous buildings, including the Radcliffe Camera, All Souls College, and the Bodleian Library. The view is particularly stunning at sunrise or sunset, when the city is bathed in a warm, golden light.
Historically, the tower has been a witness to countless university events, including ceremonies and early exams. Its bells have rung out over Oxford for centuries, adding to the rich tapestry of sounds that define the city. The tower of St Mary the Virgin is not just an architectural marvel but a symbol of Oxford's enduring history and academic excellence.
he roof of the university church of st. Mary the virgin. One had to traverse it to get to the tower. The University Church of St Mary the Virgin in Oxford is a stunning example of Gothic architecture, with its intricate design and towering spire. The church's roof, a key feature of its construction, is an outstanding example of medieval craftsmanship. Constructed of timber, the roof is both functional and decorative, with finely carved beams and supports that add to the church's overall aesthetic. The roof structure is designed to span the large nave of the church, creating an open and spacious interior that is characteristic of Gothic cathedrals.
The general construction of St Mary’s reflects the typical Gothic emphasis on verticality and light. The church features pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and large stained glass windows, which allow natural light to flood the interior, creating a serene and uplifting atmosphere. The stone walls are supported by flying buttresses, which transfer the weight of the roof outward, allowing for the inclusion of the large windows that are a hallmark of Gothic architecture.
The church's spire, which rises to 127 feet, is another highlight of its construction, serving as a focal point of the Oxford skyline. Together, these elements make the University Church of St Mary the Virgin a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and a key symbol of Oxford’s architectural heritage.
The day after May, 21 2023, We are on a bus going to Blenheim Palace, and we pass this, the martyr's memorial. The Martyrs' Memorial in Oxford is a significant historical monument that commemorates the martyrdom of three Protestant bishops—Hugh Latimer, Nicholas Ridley, and Thomas Cranmer—who were burned at the stake during the reign of Queen Mary I in the 16th century. Located at the intersection of St Giles', Magdalen Street, and Beaumont Street, the memorial stands as a poignant reminder of the religious conflicts that shaped English history.
Designed by Sir George Gilbert Scott, the memorial was completed in 1843 and is an excellent example of Victorian Gothic architecture. The monument is in the form of a tall, intricately carved spire, reminiscent of the style seen in many of Oxford’s historic buildings. It is adorned with statues of the three martyrs, each in a niche, along with inscriptions detailing their sacrifices.
The site of their execution is marked by a small cross on Broad Street, close to the memorial. The Martyrs' Memorial is not only a tribute to those who died for their faith but also a symbol of the struggle for religious freedom. It attracts both tourists and scholars, serving as a powerful reminder of the turbulent history that unfolded in Oxford during the English Reformation.
Me and Magnus on the bus from Oxford to Blenheim Palace. Did you know that the history of the bus traces back to the early 19th century when the concept of public transportation began to evolve. The first buses, known as "omnibuses," were horse-drawn vehicles introduced in France around 1823 by entrepreneur Stanislas Baudry. These early buses provided a regular service along specific routes, allowing passengers to board and alight at designated stops, revolutionizing urban transport.
In the 1830s, the concept spread to London, where George Shillibeer launched the first horse-drawn omnibus service in 1829, operating between Paddington and the Bank of England. These early buses were crucial in shaping the urban landscape, making it easier for people to commute across cities.
The introduction of steam-powered buses in the 1830s marked the next significant development. However, these were short-lived due to mechanical issues and the dominance of the railways. The real breakthrough came with the advent of the internal combustion engine in the late 19th century. The first motorized buses appeared in the early 1900s, offering greater speed and reliability compared to their horse-drawn predecessors.
The 20th century saw the bus become a staple of public transportation worldwide, with innovations such as double-decker buses, articulated buses, and low-floor designs enhancing accessibility and capacity. Today, buses remain a vital mode of transport, continually evolving to meet the needs of modern cities.
Woodstock's narrow streets are lined with elegant stone buildings, many of which date back to the 17th and 18th centuries. The town's historic charm is complemented by a range of independent shops, traditional pubs, and cozy tearooms, making it a delightful place to explore. The Town Hall, built in 1766, is a notable landmark, reflecting the town's architectural heritage.
Woodstock is also home to the Oxfordshire Museum, which offers insights into the county's history, archaeology, and natural history. The museum is set in a beautiful 18th-century house with landscaped gardens. Surrounded by the scenic Cotswolds, Woodstock offers visitors a peaceful retreat with the allure of history, culture, and natural beauty. Its close proximity to Oxford makes it a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike.
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