Westminster Abbey
History
Through this arch, we see the historic Westminster Abbey. Where Westminster Abbey is today has always been a place of worship since the 7th century. A small Benedictine monastery was established there in the 7th century by King Sebert of Essex. In 960 AD, King Edgar the Peaceful decided to rebuild the monastery as a much larger church. He dedicated it to Saint Peter the Apostle which marked the foundation of Westminster Abbey as we know it today. Westminster Abbey went through many changes as it was being constructed and expanded on. It was originally built in a Romanesque style, but as additions and renovations were made it transformed into a more Gothic style. The building as it stands today is primarily Gothic. Beginning in 1066 Westminster Abbey became the traditional place for coronations of English and British monarchs. Countless kings and queens as well as other royal family members have been crowned and buried within its walls. The Westminster Abbey is directly associated with the monarchy which grew its historical and cultural significance. As we saw when we walked through it is also a burial site for notable figures. Numerous historical figures have been buried here ranging from royal family members, scientists, and poets. Some historical figures that have been buried here include Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, Steven Hawking, and Elizabeth I. Westminster Abbey has huge symbolic importance and is directly tied to British history. It has been the place for numerous coronations, weddings, funerals, and national celebrations. Today Westminster Abbey continues to attract tourist and visitors from around the world to admire its architecture, rich history, and to pay tribute to those buried within its walls.
Historical Events at Westminster Abbey
Coronations
Westminster Abbey has been the traditional venue used for the coronations of English and British monarchs. Since the Norman Conquest in 1066, many coronations have been held within its walls. Coronations symbolize the formal ascensions of kings and queens to the throne. Notable coronations held at Westminster Abbey include William the Conqueror in 1066, Queen Elizabeth I in 1559, Queen Victoria in 1838, and Queen Elizabeth II in 1953. King Charles III and Queen Camilla were coronated at Westminster Abbey on May 6th of 2023.
State Opening of Parliament
Royal Weddings
Westminster Abbey has held numerous royal weddings throughout history. Since the time it was built, there have been 16 royal weddings that have taken place within its walls. Queen Elizabeth II married Prince Phillip on November 20, 1947 at Westminster Abbey. More recently Prince William married Kate Middleton on April 29, 2011 which captivated the worlds attention.
Royal Weddings
Westminster Abbey is the place of burial for many monarchs, consorts, and other members of the royal family. Some notable royal burials within the Westminster Abbey include King Edward the Confessor, Queen Elizabeth I, and Queen Mary II. Royal are not the only people buried there as there are many other notable figures. These figures include Charles Darwin, Isaac Newton, and Stephen Hawking.
Jubilees and Celebration
The State Opening of Parliament marks the formal start of the parliamentary year. The head of the monarchy gives a speech that sets the government's agenda for the new session. The speech that they give is written by the government. This has been going on for over 500 years and it serves as a symbolic reminder of the unity between the Sovereign, the House of Lords, and the House of Commons.
Westminster Abbey is a prime location for national celebrations related to the monarchy. Its hosted many services that mark historic events The most famous being the Diamond Jubilee celebration for Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth II.
Westminster Abbey in the Media
Films
Westminster Abbey has been mentioned and featured in many films. It is used as a recongnizable background representing London and its culture. Some of the notable films it has been in include "Notting Hill" (1999), "Sherlock Holmes" (2009), and "The Da Vinci Code" (2006)
News Coverage
The news and media have extensively covered Westminster Abbey. These events include royal weddings, funerals, and national ceremonies. The most famous event to date with media coverage was Prince William and Kate Middletons wedding which was watched across the globe.
Televison
Westminster Abbey has also made numerous appearances in popular television shows. Some notable shows it was in include "The Crown", "Downton Abbey", and "Sherlock".
Other
Other appearances of Westminster Abbey in the media include documentaries and literature. There are numerous documentaries on Westminster Abbey which explore its rich history and cultural significance. It is also mentioned in famous works by authors such as Charles Dickens, Virginia Woolf, and Dan Brown.
Final Thoughts
Westminster Abbey is a place with a rich history and a huge cultural significance directly tied to the monarchy. As we looked through this arch, we saw the history and cultural impact that this place has had on the monarchy and the world. These historical events have ingrained Westminster Abbey into the nation. The medias representation of Westminster Abbey have contributed to its prominence and social standing within London. The media has spread awareness about Westminster Abbey and its historical importance. This place started as a monastery and has grown into something much bigger as historical events continue happening within its walls.
