All Souls College
Oxford, OX1 4AL, GB
Rating: 4.8 ★ (84 ratings)
Details
Founded in 1438 by Henry Chichele, Archbishop of Canterbury, and King Henry VI, All Souls College stands as a grand monument and a unique academic institution within the University of Oxford. Its original purpose was to commemorate those who perished in the Hundred Years' War, with its fellows charged to pray for their souls and those of all the faithful departed. Unlike other Oxford colleges, All Souls consists almost exclusively of fellows and does not admit undergraduate students, focusing instead on research and postgraduate study. This distinction contributes to its reputation as one of the most intellectually rigorous and exclusive academic communities in the world. The imposing stone facade on High Street, with its gateway statues of Henry VI and Archbishop Chichele, offers a glimpse into the college's centuries of history and scholarly tradition.
Visitors are welcome to step into the College Front and Great Quadrangles, as well as the Chapel, on weekday and Sunday afternoons, offering a chance to absorb the serene atmosphere. Here you can admire the striking architecture, including the 15th-century structures and Nicholas Hawksmoor's mock-Gothic towers from the early 18th century in the North Quad. Keep an eye out for the magnificent 17th-century sundial in the North Quad, designed by former fellow Sir Christopher Wren. While the renowned Codrington Library, also designed by Hawksmoor, is not typically open to the public for entry, its impressive exterior is a significant feature of the Great Quadrangle. This library houses an extensive collection, with a significant portion of its 185,000 items published before 1800.
Location
Opening Hours
Monday: 2:00 – 4:00 PM; Tuesday: 2:00 – 4:00 PM; Wednesday: 2:00 – 4:00 PM; Thursday: 2:00 – 4:00 PM; Friday: 2:00 – 4:00 PM; Saturday: Closed; Sunday: 2:00 – 4:00 PM
Contact
+44 1865 279379
Comments
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The college was established to commemorate the fallen of the Battle of Agincourt and Henry V. Its name, "All Souls," reflects this commemorative purpose. The original mission of the college was to pray for the repose of all souls, especially those who lost their lives in conflict.
All Souls College is renowned for its rigorous selection process. Each year, only a very small number of outstanding recent graduates or young scholars who have achieved distinction are chosen to become fellows of the college, a process that is highly competitive. Being selected as a member of All Souls is considered a great honor, symbolizing the pinnacle of academic achievement.
The college's architecture is also an iconic sight in Oxford, including the famous Codrington Library and its magnificent Gothic-style buildings, making it a must-visit place when touring Oxford.
Overall, All Souls College is not just a center for academic research but also an important part of British history and culture, attracting scholars from around the world.