In 1864-5 the School was rebuilt and a chapel and vestry were erected on the site of the old Schoolroom, with the new ‘Big School’ alongside, sharing a party wall. The foundation stone was laid in June 1864 and the new buildings were ready in the summer of 1865. There is a commemorative inscription in Almshouse Street. The present chancel and vestry were then not part of the Chapel, but formed a separate room used as a library and meeting room for the Governors.

Over the years a great many additions have been made to enrich the life of the chapel, not least the various works of art that have been bought or commissioned. An example of this is ‘The Christus’, pictured here, by Peter Eugene Ball which is suspended above the altar in front of the stained glass windows. The light pierces the hands and feet as keenly as any nails. The sculpture is made from driftwood, copper, brass, gold leaf and crystal. Peter’s sculptures have ensured that the chapel at Monmouth School has national prominence.

A detailed booklet illustrating the major works of art in the school chapel can be found here.

The Chaplain is always keen to show visitors around the chapel so please contact him via the school or by email if you are visiting the area and would like an opportunity to see the chapel in more detail.

The most recent addition to the chapel was the Dewi Sant Mosaic Triptych by local ceramicist Dee Hardwicke. The piece was officially dedicated in 2008 by the Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr. Rowan Williams. Details of this event can be found here.