St. George's Chapel

Weddings & Funerals

In recent times St Georges Chapel has been the centre of attention for weddings and funerals alike.
Most notebly the funerals of Prince Phillip on the of 17th of April 2021 and Queen Elizabeth the 2nd on the 19th of September 2022.

Also the weddings of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, Prince Edward and Sophie Rhys-Jones, Princess Beatrice & Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi and Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank.

A Royal Mausoleum

Windsor Castle began when William the Conqueror originally built a mound with stockade around 1070. The work was continued by Henry II who built a round stone tower and three outer walls. Henry III constructed the western end of the lower ward complete with a chapel on the site of today’s Albert Memorial Chapel. In 1348 the Chapel became central to Edward IV for the ceremony of the Order of the Garter.

Just as Westminster Abbey is a royal mausoleum so is St Georges Chapel. Amongst the most notable buried there are Henry VIII and Jane Seymour, and George V and Queen Mary. St George’s is a working entity, where daily services are held. Although the chapel is closed to general visitors on Sunday, services welcome worshippers

English Gothic Architecture

Saint Georges’ Chapel was a classic example of English Gothic architecture with its perpendicular style. By 1483 the choir aisles and roof had been completed. This was followed by a nave in 1496. However, the vaulting took until 1528 to be finished. The chapel undertook restoration work between 1921 and 1930.
The lower ward now includes St George’s Chapel and the Albert Memorial Chapel in which George III, George IV and William IV are buried.

Treasures to Look Out For

One of the most striking features of the chapel is the intricate stonework of the choir screen. This masterpiece was created in the late 15th century and features delicate carvings of flowers, animals, and saints. The choir screen separates the Quire, which is where the choir sits, from the nave, where the congregation sits.

Another highlight of St. George's Chapel is the stunning stained glass windows. The windows date back to the 15th century and depict scenes from the life of Christ, the apostles, and the saints. The windows' intricate designs and vibrant colors are a testament to the skill of the medieval craftsmen who created them.

Visitors can look up above the choir stalls and see the insignia of the Knights of the Garter, helmets, banners and swords. Attached to the rear of the stalls are heraldic plates – a throwback to the heraldry of medieval court. Another notable tourist attraction is the west window containing 15th century stained glass.

In conclusion, St. George's Chapel is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and a testament to the rich history of the United Kingdom. With its intricate stonework, stunning stained glass windows, and cultural significance, a visit to this magnificent chapel is a must-do experience for anyone visiting Windsor Castle.