Martyrs' Memorial

4.3(647)
13 Magdalen St, Oxford OX1 3AE, United Kingdom
5
Landmarks
Age category 18+

Facilities

No information

Opening hours

No information

Weather for today

Overcast

12°C

Patchy rain nearby

Today

Patchy rain nearby

11 — 20°C

Sat

Partly Cloudy

11 — 24°C

Sun

Patchy rain nearby

13 — 24°C

Additional conditions

Sunrise

05:28

Sunset

20:54

Max wind

19.4 km/h

Uv Index

1.2

Description

Martyrs' Memorial is an impressive Victorian Gothic-style memorial to three Protestant martyrs burned at the stake in the 16th century: Thomas Cranmer, Hugh Latimer and Nicholas Ridley.

Designed by Sir George Gilbert Scott, the monument impresses with its intriguing sculptures and architectural details. Each of the three figures holds a Bible, symbolizing devotion to Protestantism.

Interesting fact: there is a legend circulating that Oxford students jokingly convinced tourists that the monument is the tower of an underground church, directing them to.... public toilets!

Reviews

★4.3(647)
avatarKen Wong5 months agoReview: The Martyrs' Memorial is a profound tribute to those who sacrificed for the nation. Its striking architecture and historical significance make it a must-visit for reflection and remembrance. The site is well-maintained, offering a serene atmosphere that enhances its impact. Beyond its symbolic presence, it stands as a reminder of resilience and courage. A landmark rich in history, it deserves recognition as both a place of honor and an important part of the nation's heritage.
avatarCariño Casas4 months agoA poignant memorial to one of the many dark chapters of church history.
avatarNimesh Dedhiaa month agoThe Martyrs' Memorial in Oxford, England, is a striking stone monument located at the intersection of St Giles', Magdalen Street, and Beaumont Street. Erected between 1841 and 1843, it commemorates the Oxford Martyrs: three prominent Protestant bishops – Thomas Cranmer (Archbishop of Canterbury), Nicholas Ridley (Bishop of London), and Hugh Latimer (Bishop of Worcester). These men were burned at the stake for heresy in Oxford in 1555-1556 during the reign of Catholic Queen Mary I, for refusing to renounce their Protestant beliefs. Designed by Sir George Gilbert Scott in the Gothic Revival style, the monument is based on the medieval Eleanor Crosses. It features intricate carvings and statues of the three martyrs. While commemorating a 16th-century event, the memorial's construction in the 19th century was also a response to contemporary religious debates, particularly the Oxford Movement, emphasizing the Protestant heritage of the Church of England. It stands as a significant symbol of religious freedom and conviction in English history. A cross of cobblestones in nearby Broad Street marks the actual execution site.

Where are we?

13 Magdalen St, Oxford OX1 3AE, United Kingdom

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