St. George’s Chapel at Windsor has been used for many momentous royal occasions. Though perhaps not as grand and stately as Westminster Abbey or St. Paul’s Cathedral, it is an enduring royal site. Weddings, christenings, and funerals are regularly held there- sadly, on Saturday, 17 April 2021, Prince Philip‘s funeral will be held at the chapel. In honor of the Duke of Edinburgh, this History Bite will explore the history of St. George’s Chapel at Windsor.
Where is the Chapel Located?
To see the chapel, you will need to actually visit Windsor Castle. It is inside the castle walls, and is located in the Lower Ward. (Once you are inside the castle walls, you won’t miss it- it dominates the forecourt.) If you are hoping to visit, plan ahead and check the website- you will want to make sure that there are no events planned, as you will not be allowed in if there is.
When was St. George’s Chapel Built?
Onto the physical history of St. George’s Chapel! The original chapel was built in 1348 by King Edward III, and was connected to King Henry III’s Chapel of St. Edward the Confessor. However, it was enlarged later in the fifteenth century, to become the chapel that we know it as today, as a Perpendicular Gothic Chapel. Construction on St. George’s Chapel began in 1475, under King Edward IV, and finished just over 50 years later.
What Makes the Chapel Special?
Like a few other notable religious sites, St. George’s Chapel is a Royal Peculiar. A Royal Peculiar is a church that does not fall under the jurisdiction of the diocese like it normally would, but rather the jurisdiction of the monarch instead. (Westminster Abbey is another of these Royal Peculiars.)
You will also find the Chapel of the Order of the Garter here. When there isn’t a pandemic happening, Garter Day is celebrated in June when all of the members of the Order of the Garter process to the chapel, and new members receive their insignia (if there are any). There are only 24 members at any given time.
Prince Philip’s Funeral- 17 April 2021
In accordance with his wishes and public health ordinances, the Duke of Edinburgh’s funeral will be held at St. George’s Chapel in Windsor. It is reported that the Duke wanted a smaller funeral, instead of a full state funeral, so this is in line with his wishes. Unfortunately, only 30 people total will be able to attend.
Were you familiar St. George’s Chapel at Windsor?
Cheers,
The Historian
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