Westminster Abbey Robert Hwang (X) November 2012

Westminster Abbey - introduction Collegiate Church of St. Peter at Westminster, located in the City of Westminster, by the Thames in South West London. Initially established by King Edward the Confessor (later Saint Edward) in The building was subsequently enhanced, the present church begun by King Henry III in English Gothic architecture masterpiece. Still a working church, but one that represents a unique pageant of British history

Westminster Abbey – connections with royals and famous people Royal connections – medieval shrine of an Anglo-Saxon saint at its heart of the building. – Unbroken role as the coronation church since 1066 – final resting place of 17 monarchs – Conducted many royal funerals – Hosted 16 royal weddings Connections with famous people – burial place for several prominent people in British history Slide 3

Westminster Abbey – Gothic architecture Gothic architecture – Introduced from France (style of the medieval period) – English Gothic flourished between Westminster Abbey has many of the defining characteristics of English Gothic, as follows: – pointed arches and large windows – large windows – vaulted roof and ceiling – narrow nave – buttress – spires At Westminster Abbey, the physical characteristics combine in such a way as to appeal to the emotions

Westminster Abbey – Benedictine monastery / Jerusalem Chamber Benedictine monastery history – Monks at Westminster Abbey – Dissolution by King Henry VIII – Reign of the protestant Elizabeth I Jerusalem Chambers – The principal room in the medieval house of the Abbots of Westminster (this house known as Cheyneygates) – Rich tapestries – Historic significance of Jerusalem Chambers

Westminster Abbey – World War II Blitz – numerous bombing raids by the Luftwaffe – night of 10 May 1941 Protection of treasures – evacuation – protection Building usage during the War Victory celebrations – Victory in Europe (VE) Day on 8 th May 1945 – Victory over Japan (VJ) Day on 15 th August 1945

Westminster Abbey - conclusion Worship – A living church today, part of the Church of England, with daily services. Historic significance – One of the world’s greatest churches, a designated World Heritage site – reflects key events in British history Architectural significance – masterpiece of English Gothic architecture