St John's College

St John's College was founded in 1534 by Henry VII's mother. It is situated at the end of St John's Street near the Round Church. It is the second largest college in Cambridge University.

Originally it was a monastic house, Hospital of St John but later became St John's College. It has a lot of history behind it and the architecture is very breathtaking. Some examples of interesting things to know or notice while you are here:
  • Charles I's engagement to Queen Henrietta Maria was arranged here by the signing of the treaty between England and France.
  • Some of the lead gutters date back to 1599 and have the stamp to prove it.

  • The School of Pythagoras is the oldest building at St John's College and was built around 1200 AD. It was owned by Merton College, Oxford until 1959.
It is open all year round to visitors (but some places might be off limits during term time and for events). If you live in Cambridge, you can get in for free.

All the Best!

American to Britain