Campion Hall, Oxford | Oxford, United Kingdom

Welcome to Campion Hall

Nestled in the vibrant city of Oxford, England, Campion Hall stands as a testament to rich history and exquisite architecture. This notable building is not only a historical landmark but also an integral part of the cultural fabric of the University of Oxford. Named after the Jesuit martyr Edmund Campion, it has housed artists, scholars, and spiritual seekers throughout its storied past.

The Origins of Campion Hall

Originally opened on September 9, 1896, as Clarke's Hall, this prestigious institution was founded by Fr Richard Clarke to serve Jesuit undergraduates. Initially situated at St. Giles', the hall was moved to several locations before finally settling at its current location on Brewer Street in 1936.

Key milestones in its history:

• 1896: Founded as Clarke's Hall, allowing Jesuits to pursue degrees from the University of Oxford.
• 1900: The hall was renamed Pope's Hall after the sudden death of Fr Clarke, continuing its academic tradition.
• 1918: Achieved permanent status under its current title, Campion Hall, marking a significant milestone in its evolution.
• 1936: The new building designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens was officially opened, showcasing stunning architecture.

Architectural Significance

One of the highlights of Campion Hall is its impressive architecture, attributed to the renowned architect Sir Edwin Lutyens. Known for his unique design style that blends traditional and modern elements, Lutyens crafted a building that harmonizes with Oxford's historical landscape.

The building features:

• A striking chapel with a semi-circular apse, adorned by a baldachin similar to cardinal hats, showcasing Lutyens' attention to detail.
• Grade II* listing since 1954, illustrating its status as a celebrated landmark within Oxford.
• Columns that reflect Lutyens’ Delhi Order design, a trademark of his architectural repertoire.

Artistic Heritage

Campion Hall also boasts an extensive collection of religious art, primarily gathered by Fr Martin D'Arcy in the 1930s. This collection spans over 600 years and provides insight into the evolution of religious artwork through different eras.

“Art is the most beautiful of all lies.” - Pablo Picasso

Noteworthy Events and Discoveries

In 2011, a fascinating event occurred when a painting known as "The Crucifixion of Jesus," previously hanging in Campion Hall, was believed to be a lost masterpiece by Michelangelo. This painting, acquired by Fr D'Arcy at a Sotheby’s auction in the 1930s, raised eyebrows in the art world and was subsequently sent to the Ashmolean Museum for preservation and further study.

The Spiritual and Academic Community

While Campion Hall serves as a cultural heritage site, it also plays a vital role in the academic community of the University of Oxford. It welcomes graduate students across various disciplines, primarily in Humanities and Social Sciences. The hall is also home to:

• The Way: A quarterly spirituality journal that has published significant works in contemporary Christian thought since 1961.
• The Laudato Si' Research Institute: Founded in 2018, this institute focus on inter-disciplinary research concerning ecology and sustainability.

Visiting Campion Hall

For those interested in exploring this remarkable facility, Campion Hall is a must-see on your visit to Oxford. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or someone looking to explore historical sites, this hall encapsulates the essence of Oxford’s allure.

Experience Campion Hall in a unique way by utilizing self-guided tours available on the AllTours app. With GPS-guided features and high-quality audio narration, you can delve deep into the stories behind this and other historical landmarks within the city. Download the app on Android or iOS to embark on your adventure today!

Conclusion

Campion Hall is more than just a building; it’s a hub of academic excellence and a repository of history. Visitors to Oxford are encouraged to include this landmark in their itinerary and witness firsthand its architectural beauty and deep-rooted heritage. If you are eager to learn more about the Oxford Odyssey and other captivating stories from this historic city, check out the full Oxford Odyssey tour.