Westminster Abbey is the best Gothic structure in Britain. It was also the place for coronations and royal weddings, as well as other historical events that had moulded the United Kingdom. Every year, millions visit this edifice to gain more knowledge of it. When was Westminster Abbey built? This question carries one on a journey through time, from very modest beginnings as a monastery and turning into one of the world's most famous churches.
In this all-encompassing overview, we outline the timeline for the construction of the Abbey, its current age, what can be found in its walls, whether it's free to view, and the location of the historical landmark itself. Along this journey, we will discover an interesting story to tell and underline the importance of Westminster Abbey to British culture.
When Was Westminster Abbey Built?
The answer to the question, "When was Westminster Abbey built?" is as follows: We have to step back into history, to 960 AD, when a small band of Benedictine monks founded the monastery on site. However, King Edward the Confessor began the construction of the building we most associate with today in the 11th century. He began construction in 1045 AD and completed it shortly before he died in 1065 AD.
Built in the Romanesque style with rounded arches and thick walls, this version of the Abbey differed greatly from the soaring Gothic design of today.
It underwent a great change in the year 1245 AD under the reign of King Henry III. Unsatisfied with the current church, Henry III demanded a new church in Gothic style. With pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses, the plan was too ambitious, thereby turning the Abbey into a wonderland in the medieval ages. All these modifications and restoration processes of the centuries only made it lose its grandeur.
To the question of those who ask, "When was Westminster Abbey built?" note that the foundation is older than the 10th century, though its current Gothic architecture dates back to the 13th century. This, therefore, puts the Abbey firmly in the book of Britain in terms of history and architecture.
How Old Is Westminster Abbey?
This depends on the perspective with which you view Westminster Abbey. The original Benedictine monastery dates back more than 1,060 years to 960 AD, making it one of the oldest religious sites in England, yet the Gothic structure that one is familiar with was begun in 1245 AD, making it some 780 years old.
Despite its oldness, Westminster Abbey remains the symbol of modern Britain. The continuity of coronations, royal ceremonies, and public worship in the Abbey is eloquent of timelessness. As an emblem of strength and continuity, it has endured the ups and downs of wars, political shifts, and the evolution of society.
What Is Inside Westminster Abbey?
The interior of Westminster Abbey is breathtaking. It's not only a place of worship but also a repository of history, art, and culture. Stepping inside its doors is a visual treat with Gothic architecture, intricate carvings, and historical treasures that are innumerable. Here's what you will find inside:
1. The Coronation Chair
The Coronation Chair marks the heart of Westminster Abbey. It is an oak chair in which every king since King Edward I has sat for coronation in the year 1308 AD. Once beneath the chair was the Stone of Scone, sacred and symbolic of the union between England and Scotland.
2. Royal Tombs
The Abbey contains the tombs of 30 British monarchs. Among them are Edward the Confessor, Henry III, and Elizabeth. These tombs, filled with intricate carvings and effigies, give one an insight into the lives and legacies of England's rulers.
3. Poets' Corner
Poets' Corner will be one of the most interesting parts of a visit for book lovers. This part of the Abbey pays homage to some of Britain's most distinguished authors, from Geoffrey Chaucer to William Shakespeare and Charles Dickens. Their memorials glorify literature as an extraordinary force in British life.
4. The Lady Chapel
Henry VII constructed the Lady Chapel, one of the most fantastic creations of the Perpendicular Gothic style. Its ethereal beauty stems from its fan-vaulted ceiling and its stained glass windows, which make it one of the most beautiful spaces in the Abbey.
5. The Tomb of the Unknown Warrior
At the entrance, there is the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior, a powerful and sombre tribute to those who had lost their lives in World War I. There is something deeply pathos-inspiring about this modest yet powerful memorial of sacrifice and national gratitude.
Features like these hardly scratch the surface of what is inside Westminster Abbey. From medieval relics to modern commemorations, the Abbey takes visitors through time, as they cannot elsewhere.
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Is Westminster Abbey free?
Many visitors wonder if Westminster Abbey is free. The answer is both yes and no, depending on the purpose of your visit. Worship services are free, but sightseeing tours require an admission fee.
The price of tickets usually ranges from £12 to £27, depending on the visitor's age and ticket type. For families, students, and group visitors, cheaper deals are usually available. For an inexpensive experience, one may attend a worship service as a perfect way of experiencing the Abbey's spiritual atmosphere without paying for the tour.
Where is Westminster Abbey?
Where is Westminster Abbey? Its location is straightforward: somewhere in the centre of London, close to some of London's most famous landmarks. The address for the Abbey is 20 Deans Yard, Westminster, London SW1P 3PA, United Kingdom.
It is easily accessible via public transport since Westminster Station is just a few minutes walk away. The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben are nearby, making it a must-see in London. For any history buff or casual tourist, Westminster Abbey offers an unforgettable experience.
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