The Round Church

The Round Church (officially Church of the Holy Sepulchre ) is one of only four medieval round churches remaining in England. Its shape is directly inspired by the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem and reminded medieval travelers of crusaders and pilgrimages.

The church was built around 1114–1131 as a small pilgrims' chapel along the old road, intended for travelers passing through Cambridge. That actually makes it a very early “travellers’ church,” long before tourism existed—a perfect detail for a route that connects historical mobility and contemporary visitors.

In the 19th century, the Round Church was so dilapidated that serious consideration was given to demolishing it, but architect Anthony Salvin restored it in the Gothic Revival style. Today, it is a visitor centre and the second most visited place in Cambridge, right after King's College Chapel.

Pascal Brackman