It is the burial ground of English kings and some of the world’s greatest poets, scientists and philosophers. Among many reason why even after more than 900 years, visitors continue to flock to Westminster Abbey. This church, burial ground and coronation site stands as a major historical landmark in London.
Visitors here can pay respects to luminaries such as Isaac Newton and James Clerk Maxwell (discoverer of electromagnetic theory, which later lead to radio and TV). Also interred here are writing greats Chaucer and Kipling, and Dr. Samuel Johnson (creator of the first English dictionary).
Henry III who reigned from the age of nine for 56 years, is buried in the Abbey. Much of the current structure owes its origins to his efforts.
Its architecture is traditional of the time it was built. The Abbey has a typical cross-shaped floor plan with a nave, north and south transepts along with several round side areas. What makes it outstanding, according to architectural pundits, is how the structure was built and executed. Many see The Collegiate Church of St. Peter, Westminster (the official name) among the best examples of church construction.
To this day, significant historical discoveries are still being made within its walls. As recently as 2005, the burial tomb of its founder, Edward the Confessor (Edward I) was discovered beneath a 1268 AD Cosmati mosaic. A number of other royal tombs dating back to the 13th and 14th centuries were also seen using ground penetrating radar.
But it is not just about deceased luminaries. History continues to unfold in Westminster Abbey. As an active church site, it is still used for services and events for all denominations. Here is where all England’s coronations occur. It’s been that way ever since William the Conqueror’s in 1066.
The quiet grandeur of this London landmark can be appreciated in the enormous vaulted ceilings, typical of early Gothic design. It is also actually a work of architectural brilliance. Just as one example, the support arches are not ornate or visible, but are enclosed within the thick stone roof.
The art housed by the Abbey alone makes the site worth visiting. Inside the west entrance is a portrait of Richard II, painted in 1390, making it one of the oldest known portraits of a British monarch.
There are several outstanding monuments in the nave, including those depicting Winston Churchill and the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior of WWI. This was the last full-body interment in the abbey. Currently, only containers of ashes are allowed.
From the cloister, walk to the octagonal Chapter House near Poet’s Corner which was built at the time of Henry III. Here you can see the mix of architectural styles forming the Abbey, as the result of additions made over the centuries.
Stroll over to the south transept to view the original rose window with its nearby medieval sculpture. This was a rarity at the time, as 3-dimensional art was often considered sinful during that period.
Something every visitor must do is to stand near the center and take in a 360 degree view. Feast your eyes on the various architectural elements coming together. Almost 1,000 years of history in a brief glance, still alive and still being made.
The Abbey is easily reached by the tube (the London Underground subway system). Exit at the St. James Park stop.
Here are other related tours: Click the links below.
Staying in London and want to take a side trip to Paris? Take the Eurostar to discover the “City of Lights” at your leisure, or with a guide. Whether it’s the Eiffel Tower you want to climb, explore the artwork in the Louvre or stroll down the Champs Elyees, this tour should cover all Paris landmarks.
Take a romantic day trip to Paris on the Eurostar and see the sights including Notre Dame, Champs Elysees and the Arc de Triomphe. Enjoy a Champagne lunch at the Eiffel Tower, ending with a leisurely cruise along the River Seine.
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