During our four days in London before joining a tour, we tried to visit as many of the “must sees” as possible.  Westminster Abbey was in the top five on that list.

First impression  – In America, we have no concept of old.  In England, a building built in the 1700’s is considered new.  Our guide mentioned that if we saw a modern building in London, it is there because the previous structure was bombed during World War II.  

Westminster Abbey:  The Abbey was founded in 960 AD – the 10th century – by Benedictine monks.  This church is 1053 years old.

Since the crowning of William the Conqueror in the Abbey in 1066, this has been the nation’s Coronation church.  Construction of the present Gothic Abbey was begun by Henry III to honor the Royal Saint Edward the Confessor.

We were not permitted to take pictures inside the Abbey because it is a working church with prayers and services daily.  While we were there, prayers were offered.

Being inside the Abbey, I could remember all the services I had seen on television – especially the wedding of Prince William and Catherine Middleton.  There is the long center aisle with the choir lofts on either side.  The magnificent arched ceiling is beautiful.

But basically, the Abbey is a glorified cemetery.  You can not believe how many people are buried there or at least have commemorative plaques – over three thousand.  Yes, that is correct.  Over three thousand people are memorialized or buried at Westminster Abbey.  To drop a few names:  Queen Elizabeth I, Sir Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, Admiral Robert Blake, Chaucer, Handel, Charles Dickens, and the Royal Saint Edward the Confessor.  It was interesting to say the least.

Outside where I could take pictures, the views took my breath away. The ancient stonework on this Gothic church is amazing.

I love this window.

Can you believe the view through this gorgeous iron gate?

There was a courtyard with a fountain.

This stained glass window honors Roberson Duckworth.  Like the name.  Really like the window.

Isn’t this a pretty little garden?  I think they called it a rose garden – it does have a few roses.

Be still my heart.  Doors always appeal to me, and I love, love, love, this door.

And this door also.  I did feel like I was in the land of fairytales.

Being at Westminster Abbey was wonderful.  It was inspiring how they attempt to maintain worshipful experiences in the midst of all the tourist.

Blessings to you and yours,

I have a dear friend who celebrated Christmas at Westminster Abbey.  I can only imagine how wonderful that must have been – the magnificent church, the pageantry, and the beautiful music.  Be still my heart!