Westminster Abbey, London

The Westminster Abbey structure that is beautiful both on the outside as well as on the inside with its paintings, stained glass, artifacts, and pavements. The original building was erected in AD 960 by Saint Dunstan and King Edgar. The structure and the building itself looks very much like a French building and it only adds to its beauty. Over the century, chapels and towers were added, sculptures and carvings of late gothic were introduced.

Architecture of Westminster Abbey

The architecture of Westminster Abbey is a blend of different styles from Gothic to Romanesque. The façade is a classical Gothic style while the Chapter House features Geometrical Gothic style. The nave of this collegial church is built in Romanesque style.

Royal Burial Site

Many kings and queens have been buried in this church near the shrine of Edward the Confessor or in Henry VII’s chapel. The last monarch who buried here was King George II, who died in 1760. After which all other sovereign who died are buried at Windsor Castle. There are memorials of British statesmen and the grave of the Unknown Warrior, whose remains were received from Belgium in 1920. The list of burials in Westminster Abbey goes well over 3300 people in total.

Coronations and Weddings

From the time of William, the Conqueror, the British monarchy has been crowned here except Edward V and Edward VIII. It has become a tradition for all important functions of the royal family to be carried out here, including the weddings of the royal family.

UNESCO World Heritage Site

Indeed, Westminster Abbey is a masterpiece of art and history dating from its origin during the Benedictine monastery. Today, both a sight to behold as well as a church carrying out sermons and services, indeed this is a monument that should be visited by people from all over the world.