Oxford - University Church of St Mary the Virgin

The Church of St Mary the Virgin is among Oxford's dreaming spires is one of the dreamiest, with its amazing display of 14th century Gothic in pinnacles upon pinnacles. The church's history is entwined with that of the university.

Degree-conferring ceremonies were held in the room above the Congregation House, where masters met, held the university library until 1488.

The extravagant Virgin Porch of 1637, with curly columns inspired by Raphael or Bernini, incorporates classical features and a statue of the Virgin. The interior is gloriously high and light, with tall, shafted Perpendicular columns in the nave and great windows, one in the chancel nearly reaching the ground.

Often the scene of religious controversy, Cranmer, Ridley and Latimer were tried here, and in 1833 John Keble preached the sermon which heralded the Oxford Movement, leading some of its followers to Rome, notably Newman, appointed Vicar of St Mary's in 1828.

Climb the tower for a great view of the university and city.