In the city of Westminster, located just a short distance to the west of the palace of Westminster, lies a towering and almost menacing wonder from the past. Formally titled the Collegiate Church of St. Peter at Westminster, but more commonly known as Westminster Abbey, is one of the iconic and infamous religious buildings in the world, and is a structure that is steeped in more than a thousand years of history, having played the final resting place for many Kings and Queens. It is situated in the heart of London, in close proximity to some of the region’s most prestigious establishments such as The Halkin by Como, London. One of the most reputed among London Boutique Hotels.
Westminster Abbey is more than an architectural masterpiece of the 13th to 16thcenturies, Westminster Abbey is a towering testament to British history, being a shrine of St. Edward the Confessor, and containing tombs and memorials to royalty, infamy and greatness. Amongst those buried at Westminster Abbey are Kings and Queens, Poets and Scientists, Warriors and Musicians. The development of Westminster Abbey took place over centuries as the architectural entity started out as a monastery, which was transformed into a church following the reformation. King Edward, later known as St. Edward the Confessor, was the one who chose to enlarge the monastery into a massive church in honor of St. Peter the Apostle. Edward’s church survived for nearly two centuries until King Henry the third decided to rebuild the church in the style of the gothic architectural style of the thirteenth century. He also expanded the use to serve as a burial site for monarchs in addition to being a place of worship. Following the premature death of the king, his true vision for the Church never reached fruition and the older structure stood attached to the new Gothic building for many years.
So if you happen to visit the city of London, indulge in a generous serving of history by visiting Westminster Abbey.
Shehera Fioni is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Catalina Forbes. Her content is based on many thrilling escapades offered to travellers across the world. Google+
