Goddard Chapel

Goddard Chapel is a Lombardic Romanesque building at Tufts University featuring a hundred-foot bell tower and a cloister on the east side. The exterior walls are constructed from blue-gray slate sourced from local quarries, giving the structure its distinctive appearance.

The chapel was built between 1882 and 1883 with funding from Mary Goddard to meet the growing needs of the university community. It replaced a smaller worship space in Ballou Hall that had become inadequate for the expanding congregation.

The interior displays medieval Romanesque elements with ribbed ceilings, cherry pews, and oak floors that create a traditional worship setting. The stained glass windows show religious figures in university colors and shape how light fills the space.

The chapel is open throughout the academic year for religious services, student gatherings, and campus events. Visiting hours vary based on programming, so it is best to check ahead before planning your visit.

The stained glass windows feature an innovative color-etching technique developed by architect J. Phillip Rinn and Italian artist Tommaso Juglaris. This method was designed to maximize natural light transmission through the glass while creating distinctive visual effects throughout the interior.

Location: Medford

GPS coordinates: 42.40709,-71.11933

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:24