The Open Guide to Cambridge - Differences between Version 71 and Version 11 of King's College

King's College is a college of Cambridge University, situated in the centre of the city. Founded in 1441 by Henry VI, it has a reputation for radical politics and artistic endeavour. The chapel was finished by 1544, largely at the expense of royal patrons, particularly Henry VIII. The front court was completed in the nineteenth century during the neo-gothic revival, giving the front court a superficially unified aesthetic. The completion of the court included the controversial demolition of the buildings along one side of Kings Parade.

Recognised worldwide for the beauty of its perpendicular gothic chapel, Kings also owns and occupies the much maligned Keynes building, a concrete modernist building from 1967. This building bestrides Kings Lane; better known as "Piss Alley" for its ammoniacal smell. The lane's unpleasant aroma is likely due to nesting pigeons and to late-night urination. The Keynes building has also been criticised for its energy inefficiency. A popularly-held belief is that the building has received listed status, which would prevent extensive renovation or demolition. This is, however, not the case.

The college, and the chapel in particular, is the focus of the Cambridge tourist industry, and the iconic image of Cambridge. The college charges admission to those visitors who are not local residents nor associated with the University. The chapel is the setting for "Nine Lessons and Carols", an annual church service and traditional BBC broadcast.

King's boasts a large number of famous alumni, including EM Forster, Alan Turing, and Sir Robert Walpole. JM Keynes was a fellow of the college, and its bursar.