Unveiling the Top 20 Fascinating Facts About Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey, located in London, England, is a historic and iconic landmark. It is a world-renowned symbol of British history and culture. The Abbey is one of the most famous and historic buildings in London, attracting millions of visitors every year. This magnificent church has a rich and fascinating history that spans over a thousand years.

It has been the site of coronations, royal weddings, and funerals of prominent figures, including monarchs, statesmen, and poets. Most recently King Charles III coronation on Saturday 6th May 2023.

The Abbey was founded in the mid-10th century by King Edgar, who established a community of Benedictine monks on a small island called Thorney in the River Thames. The original church was built of timber, but by the time of the Norman Conquest in 1066, it had been replaced by a stone church, which was dedicated to St. Peter.

The Norman Conquest brought a period of great change to England, and the Abbey was no exception. In 1065, King Edward the Confessor began a major rebuilding project that would transform the church into a grand Romanesque structure. However, Edward died before the project was completed, and it was left to William the Conqueror to finish the work.

William rebuilt the Abbey on an even grander scale, using the latest architectural techniques and the finest materials. The new church was consecrated on December 28, 1065, just a few days before Edward’s death.

Over the centuries, Westminster Abbey became closely associated with the English monarchy. It was the site of every coronation ceremony from William the Conqueror’s in 1066 to that of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953. The coronation of a monarch was an incredibly important event, and the Abbey provided a magnificent setting for the occasion.

The Abbey was also the site of many royal weddings and funerals. Perhaps the most famous of these was the funeral of Princess Diana in 1997. The whole world watched as her cortege passed through the streets of London and her funeral took place in the Abbey.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, the Abbey underwent a major restoration and renovation project, which was part of the Gothic Revival movement. Many of the medieval features of the church had been lost over the centuries, and the restorers aimed to recreate the grandeur and splendour of the original Norman and Gothic structures.

One of the most significant changes was the addition of the western towers, which had originally been planned but never built. The towers were finally completed in the mid-18th century, and they remain one of the most iconic features of the Abbey.

During the 20th century, Westminster Abbey continued to play a central role in British history. It was the site of numerous important events, such as the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II and the funeral of Sir Winston Churchill.

In recent years, the Abbey has undergone a major restoration project to ensure that it remains a safe and secure place for future generations to enjoy. This work has included repairs to the stonework and roof, as well as the installation of a new lighting system and other modern facilities.

In this post, we have detailed the top 20 facts about Westminster Abbey that have cemented its historical significance in British history.

Top 20 Westminster Abbey Facts

1. Construction: Westminster Abbey was built in 960 AD as a Benedictine monastery. The present church was constructed between 1245 and 1517.
2. UNESCO World Heritage Site: Westminster Abbey was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.
3. Burials: Over 3,000 people have been buried or commemorated at Westminster Abbey, including 17 monarchs, 56 noblemen, and 29 bishops.
4. Coronations: Since 1066, all but two English and British monarchs have been crowned at Westminster Abbey.
5. Royal Weddings: The most recent royal wedding at Westminster Abbey was that of Prince William and Catherine Middleton in 2011.
6. State Funerals: Westminster Abbey has been the site of many state funerals. These include those of Winston Churchill, Margaret Thatcher, and Princess Diana.
7. Poets’ Corner: Poets’ Corner, located in the south transept of Westminster Abbey, is the final resting place of famous poets and writers. Most notably William Shakespeare, Charles Dickens, and Geoffrey Chaucer.
8. Tomb of the Unknown Warrior: The Tomb of the Unknown Warrior, located in the nave of the Abbey, contains the remains of an unidentified British soldier who died in World War I.
9. Architecture: Westminster Abbey is a prime example of Gothic architecture, with its pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses.
10. Length: The length of Westminster Abbey is 170 meters (558 feet).
11. Height: The highest point of the Abbey is the central tower, which stands at 69 meters (225 feet) tall.
12. Width: The width of Westminster Abbey is 75 meters (246 feet) at its widest point.
13. Organ: Westminster Abbey has one of the most famous organs in the world, with its origins dating back to the 14th century.
14. Choir: The Westminster Abbey Choir, consisting of 30 boys and 12 professional adult singers, performs at all major services in the Abbey.
15. Cloisters: The cloisters of Westminster Abbey were built in the 14th century and provide a peaceful oasis within the bustling city.
16. Cosmati Pavement: The Cosmati Pavement, located in the sanctuary of the Abbey, is a magnificent medieval mosaic made of marble and glass.
17. Stained Glass Windows: The stained glass windows of Westminster Abbey date back to the 13th century and include depictions of biblical scenes and historical figures.
18. Chapels: The Abbey has several chapels, including the Lady Chapel, the Chapel of St. Edmund, and the Chapel of St. Nicholas.
19. Restoration: Westminster Abbey underwent a major restoration project in the mid-19th century, which included the addition of a new nave roof and the rebuilding of the west towers.
20. Visitor Numbers: Westminster Abbey attracts over 1.5 million visitors each year, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in London.

Our visit

A visit to this magnificent Gothic church is like taking a step back in time to witness some of the most significant events in British history. Recently, we had the opportunity to visit this awe-inspiring structure and experience first hand the grandeur and beauty of this national treasure.

Upon entering Westminster Abbey, we were immediately struck by the sheer scale and splendour of the building. The soaring arches, intricate carvings, and colourful stained-glass windows are a testament to the remarkable craftsmanship of the artisans who built this magnificent structure over the course of centuries.

One of the most impressive aspects of Westminster Abbey is the number of notable individuals who have been laid to rest within its walls. We were awed by the magnificence of the tombs of monarchs such as Elizabeth I, Mary Queen of Scots, and Henry VII. As well as the memorials to other famous figures like Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, and William Shakespeare. It was a humbling experience to stand in the presence of so much history and pay respects to those who have made such a significant impact on the world.

In addition to the tombs and memorials, we were also able to explore the various chapels and rooms within the Abbey. The intricate details of the Lady Chapel, the Poets’ Corner, and the Chapter House were breathtaking and spoke to the skill and artistry of the medieval craftsmen who created them.

We were fortunate enough to visit Westminster Abbey during a time when a choir was performing. The soaring melodies and harmonies that filled the air were nothing short of sublime, and we were moved by the power and beauty of the music.

All in all, we found Westminster Abbey to be an awe-inspiring and humbling experience. The sheer grandeur and beauty of the building, combined with the weight of history and the reverence with which it is held, make it a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to London. It is truly a testament to the remarkable artistry and craftsmanship of the generations who have contributed to its creation and preservation.

Travelling to Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey is located in central London, and as a result, there are numerous ways to travel to this magnificent church. Whether you prefer public transportation, private vehicles, or walking, there are many options available to suit your needs.

Public Transportation

One of the easiest and most convenient ways to travel to Westminster Abbey is by public transportation. The Abbey is located near several major tube stations, including Westminster, St. James’s Park, and Victoria. Each of these stations is served by multiple underground lines, making it easy to get to the Abbey from anywhere in London.

In addition to the tube, there are also several bus routes that stop near the Abbey, including the 11, 24, 88, and 148. The bus is a great option for those who want to see more of the city on their journey to the Abbey.

Private Vehicles

If you prefer to travel by car, there are several options available. There is limited parking available near the Abbey, but it is often difficult to find a spot. However, there are several nearby car parks, including the Q-Park Westminster and the NCP Victoria.

Another option is to take a taxi or a private hire vehicle. London has a large number of licensed taxi and private hire operators, making it easy to arrange for a pick-up and drop-off at the Abbey.

Walking

For those who enjoy walking and exploring the city, the walk to Westminster Abbey is a great option. The Abbey is located in the heart of London, near several other major landmarks, such as the Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace, and the London Eye.

Walking to the Abbey allows you to take in the sights and sounds of the city, and is a great way to experience London. There are several walking tours available that take in the Abbey and other nearby landmarks, such as the Westminster Abbey and Parliament Square tour.

Whether you prefer public transportation, private vehicles, or walking, there are numerous ways to travel to Westminster Abbey. The Abbey is easily accessible from anywhere in London, making it a convenient and popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.

Essentials for your visit

Below we have listed a few essential items we would recommend taking with you on your visit to Westminster Abbey.

• Comfortable shoes – You are likely to do lots of walking so suitable footwear is important
• Umbrella – Even in the summer you never quite know what the weather is likely to be like in England
• Sunglasses – As much as it might rain, it’s also very possible that the sun will be shining on the day of your visit.
• Camera – Make sure you take lots of pictures to remember your trip
• Water bottle – Make sure you stay hydrated on your travels. A reusable bottle is better for the environment and can be filled from any water source.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Westminster Abbey is a cultural and historical treasure with a rich history and stunning architecture. Its significance as a site of royal coronations, weddings, and funerals, as well as its associations with famous writers and poets, make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in English history and culture.

Further reading

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