Alright, intrepid explorer! You’re approaching St Mark's Church, better known to history buffs as Gaunt's Chapel, and you’ll find it on your left.
To spot this treasure among buildings, look for a grand gothic façade with intricate stonework. The church’s west front boasts a large, decorated arched window with traceries reminiscent of medieval designs, and you can’t miss the wooden doors below with their decorative carvings. By the way, don't be surprised if you spy a sundial on the wall - though time tells us this place dates way back to c. 1230!
Nestled on the north-east side of College Green, this church is quite the historical gem:
St Mark’s Church, originally built around 1230, served as the chapel of Gaunt's Hospital, a charitable institution established by Maurice de Gaunt. Fun fact: it’s one of just two churches in England privately owned and still used for worship by a city corporation (the other sibling lies in London).
But that's not all - this church is like a living history book! It's packed with chest tombs, including those of its founders Maurice de Gaunt and Robert de Gournay, knights of medieval prestige. It’s also the final resting place for many notable figures, including members of the influential Berkeley and Poyntz families. Oh, and let’s not forget the explorer Thomas James, who’s got a whole bay named after him in the Arctic!
Peek inside (virtually, of course) and you'll be dazzled by late gothic features and a stunning collection of continental stained glass. It's no wonder this masterpiece was designated a Grade I listed building by Historic England.
So, tiptoe carefully, as this place could well be hosting a late-night ghost story bonanza with all those historical VIPs tucked inside! Let's move on to our next adventure.
For a more comprehensive understanding of the foundation, notable burials or the dissolution, engage with me in the chat section below.
