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Founded in 1555 by Sir Thomas Pope on land previously occupied by Durham College, Trinity College's Broad Street entrance is distinguished by its iron palisade and striking blue gates, offering a more open feel than many other Oxford colleges. The college boasts four major quadrangles, including the 17th-century Garden Quad designed by Sir Christopher Wren, alongside extensive lawns and gardens that feature a small woodland area. Its exquisite chapel, a masterpiece of English baroque consecrated in 1694, contains a remarkable limewood altar screen carved by Grinling Gibbons and is considered a 'must-see' for visitors. The college has also seen recent developments with the opening of the Levine Building in 2022, providing new student accommodation, a major auditorium, and enhanced library facilities.
Trinity College's rich history is not only embodied in its architecture but also in its notable alumni, which include three former British Prime Ministers, such as William Pitt the Elder. The college, originally established as a training house for Catholic priests, transitioned to become a pillar of the Anglican establishment and later a center for educational reform. Visitors can explore the Dining Hall, Chapel, and the celebrated gardens, which have undergone recent restoration work including a new 120-metre border by garden designer Chris Beardshaw and sustainable planting initiatives. Though relatively small in terms of student numbers, approximately 400, Trinity has a vibrant community and a strong academic reputation. The college is also known for its connections to literature, with the fictional Jay Gatsby counted among its 'alumni'.
Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Saturday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Sunday: Closed
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