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CIE and the University of Cambridge

Full Overview

As CIE is part of the University of Cambridge, we joined in the year of events held to mark the University's 800th anniversary applauding the University’s remarkable achievements, and celebrating its close bond with CIE.

The earliest University records date from 1209, when groups of scholars congregated at Cambridge in order to study. In the following 800 years, the University has become one of the world’s leading research institutions, especially in science, with Cambridge affiliates winning over 80 Nobel prizes − more than any other institution in the world. It is also the place where some of the world’s best-known entertainers began their careers.

Cambridge 800 was launched in January 2009 with a specially commissioned, spectacular light show. Projected onto two of the University's most prestigious buildings, the show charted the University's history through a series of vibrant images and illustrations. In particular, the show illustrated the University's remarkable contribution to scientific development, a tradition supported by the work of CIE today. While city residents enjoyed the light show, church bell ringers around the world simultaneously played a new piece specially composed for the occasion.

The University also hosted a number of important festivals during the year. The Cambridge Science Festival took place in March; the Darwin Anniversary Festival in July; and the Festival of Ideas, focusing on the arts, humanities and social sciences, in October. For more detailed information on these, visit the Cambridge 800 website.