Landmark
Corpus Clock
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The Corpus Clock is a unique public timepiece mounted on the exterior of the Taylor Library at Corpus Christi College. Designed by John Taylor, it features a giant grasshopper (or 'chronophage') that appears to devour time, with its legs moving in a mesmerizing, irregular rhythm. Unveiled in 2008 by Stephen Hawking, the clock has no hands or numbers; instead, it uses glowing blue lights to indicate hours, minutes, and seconds. The clock's design symbolizes the relentless passage of time, making it a thought-provoking landmark.
Don't miss
- Watch the grasshopper's jaw move as it 'eats' each second
- Spot the glowing blue lights that replace traditional clock hands
- Read the inscription 'Mundus transit et concupiscentia eius' (the world passes away and its desires)
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Corpus Clock
You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inCambridge Famous Alumni Quest Experience4.7★ · 18 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$5 per personSee dates →
Most bookedCambridge University Tour by Alumni™ with optional King's Chapel4.9★ · 2,480 travelers2–3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$34 per personSee dates →
Private & flexiblePrivate Self-Guided Dinky Door Hunt in Cambridge4.6★ · 111 travelers2–3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$12 per personSee dates →More attractions in Cambridge
