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| Westminster Abbey, London, England Westminster Abbey is located in Westminster, London, and is one of the most prolific attractions in Britain, and an important and valuable structure in the city. Westminster Abbey has also been the coronation site for every British monarch since 1066. It has, in the past, served as a church, a burial site, and even a monastery. Today, Westminster Abbey is a world famous tourist attraction while still maintaining its parliamentary and historical significance. Tourists interested in the history of England can tour the site, learn about who was buried in Westminster Abbey, and view one of the most beautiful cathedrals in the world. The full name is The Collegiate Church of St Peter at Westminster, but is almost completely referred to as Westminster Abbey by locals and foreigners alike. It is large and features an intricate and commanding Gothic style, and is situated just west of the Palace of Westminster. Between 1546 and 1556, the Abbey briefly boasted cathedral status, and is currently a Royal Peculiar. Today, Windsor Castle is the site for royal family burials, but in the early years, Westminster Abbey was the main burial site for monarchs and their families. Famous figures that were laid to rest at Westminster Abbey include Henry III, Chaucer, Tennyson and Dickens. Shakespeare, Elliot and Keats boast memorials within the walls of the historic Abbey. The abbey can be divided into four sections: The Nave - Here you will find the Grave of the Unknown Warrior, a World War 1 soldier who died in battle. Not far is the marble memorial for Winston Churchill. Churchill's body is not buried in the abbey, but instead buried in Bladon. The Cloyster - The Cloyster was built between the 13th and 15th centuries, and was completely rebuilt after the Great Fire of 1298. In the past, the cloyster were used by monks for meditation and exercise. Chapter House - The stunning Chapter House is one of the largest of its kind in England, and boasts the original tile floor from 1250, as well as ancient 14th century murals. A great historical contribution to the city. Henry VII Chapel - Also known as the Lady Chapel, Henry VII Chapel was built between 1503 and 1512, and is one of the most spectacular chapels of its time. Here you will find the Battle of Britain memorial window, a window dating back to 1947. This memorial commemorates the fighter pilots and crew who died during the Battle of Britain in 1940. Visiting the Abbey: For tourists wanting to visit this iconic structure in London, tours are available throughout the year. Tours are conducted daily and take guests on a journey through the history of the building and the royal British monarch. Tour the coronation throne, which is still used to crown monarchs to this day. You will also witness the many monuments, memorials and burial sites of many famous figures who found their final resting place at the Abbey. |