The Corpus Clock : info and guided tour

Introduction to The Corpus Clock

The Corpus Clock is a spectacular clock sculpture installed on the facade of Corpus Christi College in Cambridge, at 58 Trumpington Street. Visible from the street, it immediately catches the eye with its golden disc, hypnotic movement, and deliberately surprising design, making it one of the best-known landmarks in the city center.

Created as a contemporary work linked to the university, this clock stands out for its original display concept. It does not feature a classic dial, but a large luminous surface where time seems to take shape in a different way. Its aesthetic blends mechanics, public art, and a reflection on time, which adds to its appeal among visitors.

Its most iconic detail is undoubtedly the creature that dominates the whole piece, often nicknamed the “chronophage”, a metallic insect that seems to devour time. This motif, with its light effects and almost living appearance, gives the clock a striking presence and makes it as much an artistic work as an architectural one.

In the heart of Cambridge, The Corpus Clock is a major curiosity for anyone exploring the city’s academic heritage. It stands apart from traditional clocks through its bold visual language, and remains famous for the balance between mechanical invention, contemporary sculpture, and a dramatic presentation of time.

Discover Cambridge with a private guide

A private guide can help place The Corpus Clock in its university and artistic context, explaining its details, symbolism, and location on Trumpington Street. The experience also makes it easier to appreciate the work on site and understand why it has become such a striking landmark in Cambridge.