St George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle is a significant historical site known for its stunning architecture and its role as the Chapel of the Order of the Garter. The floor plan of St George’s Chapel features a variety of key elements, including the nave, chantry chapels, royal vaults, Garter stalls, and more.
Key Features of the Floor Plan
- Nave: The central part of the chapel where the main services are held, characterized by slender Perpendicular Gothic columns and a fan-vaulted ceiling.
- Beaufort Chantry: This chantry chapel houses the marble tomb of Charles Somerset (d. 1526) and his first wife.
- West Nave Central: The richly decorated bosses in the roof above the nave bear the coats of arms of Henry VII, his family, and court officials.
- Urswick Chantry: This chantry chapel, built in 1507, commemorates Dean Urswick, a confidant of Henry VII, and contains a marble monument to Princess Charlotte.
- Tomb of George V and Queen Mary: The chapel contains the tombs of several British monarchs, including George V and Queen Mary.
- King George VI Memorial Chapel and Tomb: This chapel is dedicated to King George VI and houses his tomb.
- Hastings Chantry: This chantry chapel was built for Lord Hastings (d. 1483), who was executed by order of Richard III.
- Edward IV’s Tomb: The chapel contains the tomb of Edward IV (d. 1483) and Queen Elizabeth Woodville.
- Wrought Iron Gates: These intricate gates were designed to protect the tomb of Edward IV.
- Tudor Oriel Window: The ornately carved wooden window was built by Henry VIII as a gallery for Katherine of Aragon.
Architectural Style and History
St George’s Chapel was founded in the 14th century by King Edward III and extensively enlarged in the late 15th century. The chapel is built in the late-medieval Perpendicular Gothic style, characterized by tall, slender columns and fan-vaulted ceilings. The chapel has undergone several restorations and renovations over the centuries, including a significant restoration from 1780 to 1790 under King George III.
Main Sections or Areas
- Nave: The central part of the chapel where the main services are held.
- Chantry Chapels: Several chantry chapels are located throughout the chapel, each dedicated to a specific individual or family.
- Royal Vault: This vault contains the tombs of several British monarchs.
- Garter Stalls: The stalls reserved for the Knights of the Garter.
- Royal Stalls: The stalls reserved for the royal family during services.
- West Window: A stained-glass window portraying 75 royals, saints, and popes.
- East Window: A window built in 1863 as a memorial to Prince Albert, consort of Queen Victoria.
Quantifiable Details
- Cost: A standard adult ticket costs £14.50 during peak season and £12.50 during off-peak season.
- Timings: The chapel is open from 9:30 AM to 4:15 PM from March to October and from 9:30 AM to 3:15 PM from November to February.
- Directory: The chapel is located in the Lower Ward of Windsor Castle, Windsor, Berkshire, SL4 1NJ, UK.
- Hours: The chapel is open daily, except for certain special events and services.
- Rates: The chapel offers various types of tickets, including standard, concession, and family tickets.
- Value: St George’s Chapel is a significant historical site and a popular tourist destination, offering a unique glimpse into British history and architecture.
Real-Life Incidents and Statistics
- Royal Burials: St George’s Chapel has been the site of many royal burials, including those of Henry VIII, Charles I, and George V.
- Restoration: The chapel underwent a significant restoration from 1780 to 1790 under King George III.
- Order of the Garter: The chapel is the Chapel of the Order of the Garter, a prestigious chivalric order founded in 1348 by King Edward III.
Reference
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St_George%27s_Chapel,_Windsor_Castle
- https://www.stgeorges-windsor.org/about-st-georges/experience-st-georges/plan-of-the-college/
- http://www.thamesweb.co.uk/windsor/castle/castlemap.htm
- https://www.britainexpress.com/counties/berkshire/windsor-castle/st-georges-map.htm