Divinity School
A medieval lecture hall in the Perpendicular style, built between 1427 and 1483 and still attached to the Bodleian Library.
The Divinity School is entered through the Bodleian; check that page and the official website for opening times and any entry arrangements before you go. Look up at the ceiling: it carries 455 carved bosses.
The Divinity School was put up between 1427 and 1483 in the Perpendicular style, and it belongs to the University of Oxford. Wikipedia calls it the oldest surviving university building made for the purpose, with lectures, oral examinations and theological debate in mind.
The ceiling
Overhead, elaborate lierne vaulting carries 455 bosses. William Orchard is named as its designer, working in the 1480s.
Where it sits
It is joined to the Bodleian Library, and Duke Humfrey's Library occupies the first floor above. Facing it across the way is the Sheldonian Theatre, where matriculation and graduation ceremonies take place. Through a door at the end farthest from the Bodleian entrance lies Convocation House, built 1634-7.
Since then
Lectures and theology discussions no longer happen here, though Oxford's Faculty of Theology and Religion still teaches degrees in the subject. The building has National Heritage List for England entry 1047185.
On screen
Three of the Harry Potter films (the first, second and fourth) used the Divinity School as the Hogwarts hospital wing and as the room where Professor McGonagall teaches the students to dance.
For visiting details, see the Bodleian page and the Bodleian's official website.
Nearby
Within a few minutes' walk
