Westminster Abbey

There are many iconic symbols of this great city; Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, the red double-decker buses; just to name a few. Westminster Abbey is one of those iconic symbols. The formal name is "The Collegiate Church of St. Peter at Westminster" ( because of ancient legends stating that St. Peter performed miracles on this site) and it is one of the most important religious buildings in the UK. Also, it is the traditional place for coronations and burials for British monarchs. Documents indicate that the first church was built on this site in the 7th century and coronations of British monarchs have been held here since 1066. Construction of the present building began in 1245 upon the orders of King Henry III. Since the year 1100, sixteen Royal weddings have taken place in Westminster Abbey. The two western towers of the Abbey were built between 1722 and 1745. Part of the whole complex includes the Westminster School located in the Dean's Yard to the right of the main entrance. Since the beginning of the 19th century, Westminster Abbey has been ranked the third seat of learning in England, after Oxford and Cambridge Universities. During World War II, the church suffered minor damage from German attacks on London. Of all the places that we have toured on this trip, Westminister Abbey is by far the most impressive. It acknowledges within its walls every significant achievement of English history, science, literature, medicine, and the succession of monarchs. This should be a "must see" on every travelers bucket list.

The West Front of Westminster Abbey with the two towers constructed during the 18th century.

The High Altar and Cosmati Pavement (i.e. floor).

Monument to Sir Isaac Newton, whose tomb is in the floor just before this sculpture.

The RAF chapel with the Battle of Britain Window. Notice the white hexagonal piece in the bottom panel to the left of the Cross. This is the only damage to the stained glass window from the bombings of World War II.

The South Rose window.

Henry VII's Lady Chapel. The Coats of Arms of the various families that have attended services here over the centuries are depicted by the banners overhead, as well as small plaques attached to the side seats.

This is the Coronation Chair on which Monarchs are crowned.

Originally part of the Abbey in which the monks worshipped, the Quire is now used by the twenty-two boys and twelve Lay Vicars (the name given to the men of the choir) to sing the daily services.

The Poet's Corner.

Situated in the west end of the nave, the grave of the Unknown Warrior is covered by a slab of black Belgium marble and contains soil brought back from France in 1920 along with the body of the Unknown.