Part of our guide to Berkshire, England, highlighting attractions, history, and visitor information.
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St. George's Chapel, Windsor Castle Part of our guide to Berkshire, England, highlighting attractions, history, and visitor information. |
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St. George's Chapel, Windsor CastleSt. George's Chapel is rightly considered one of the most beautiful examples of Perpendicular (late-medieval) Gothic architecture in England. The Chapel was begun in 1475 by Edward IV, and finished 50 years later during the reign of Henry VIII.
The chapel is the official home of the Order of the Garter, the oldest and most prestigious chivalric institution in England. (More on the Order of the Garter). Members of the order are obliged to display their "achievements" in the chapel. These "achievements" include a banner depicting their heraldic coat of arms, an enamelled stallplate, sword, crest, and helmet. When a member dies the insignia are returned to the monarch, but the stallplates remain in place in the chapel, providing a memorial and heraldic record. The Garter Stalls were carved between 1478 and 1485. Within St. George's are the tombs of 10 monarchs, including Edward IV, Charles I, George V and Queen Mary, and George VI. Also buried here is Henry VIII, who lies beside his favourite wife, Jane Seymour. Notable is the tomb of Henry VI, near the high altar. After Henry's death in 1471, miracles were reported by visitors to the devout king's tomb, and the chapel became a popular place of pilgrimage. Related:Windsor Castle Map of Windsor Perpendicular Gothic architecture Location map for St. George's Chapel
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