westminster-abbey Photos

WESTMINSTER ABBEY is a UNESCO world heritage site.

Situated in the heart of London, Westminster Abbey is also at the heart of the country’s royal, parliamentary and governmental history.

Starting with the coronation of William the Conqueror in 1066, all subsequent coronations of kings and queens of England have been performed here, with only two exceptions: Edward V and Edward VIII. Westminster Abbey has witnessed 38 coronations, the most recent was that of Queen Elizabeth II, in 1953. Many (17) of the kings and queens of England were also buried here – the Abbey has been the main royal burial site in the past 500 years.

Originally built in the 11th century by King Edward the Confessor, who is also buried here, Westminster Abbey was rebuilt in Gothic style in 1245 at King Henry III’s orders, by a team led by three masons: Henry of Reyns, John of Gloucester and Robert of Beverly.

Westminster Abbey is one of the most important Gothic sites in the UK. It boasts the highest Gothic arches in the country and it shelters an impressive collection of paintings, stained glasswork, sculptures, tombs and burial chapels. It is home to the most important monumental sculpture collection in the UK.