ABBAZIA DI WESTMINSTER

Westminster Abbey is a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Westminster Abbey

It is situated near the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben

It is located in the City of Westminster, London, England.

51.4994° N, 0.1270° W.

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What can you do there?

Westminster Abbey is a UNESCO World Heritage Site

WestminsterAbbey

"At different times of the day, or in different seasons, the light falling in the Abbey will light up something that you have walked past a million times and never seen before".

Westminster Abbey

YES

Is there a website?

YES

Is there a multimedia guide?

Sunday

Saturday

Monday to Friday

What are the visiting hours for Westminster Abbey?

Children (ages 0-5)

Families (1 adult and 1 child)

Students and over 65

Children (6/!7)

There's a discount for:

Adults

How much does a ticket cost?

Westminster Abbey is a UNESCO World Heritage Site

The Tomb of the Unknown SoldierAt the western end of the Abbey lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, honoring unidentified soldiers who died in World War I. It serves as a memorial to all who lost their lives in the conflict.

Westminster Abbey is an Anglican church located in the heart of London, with origins dating back to 960 AD. Initially a Benedictine monastery, it was renovated and expanded over the centuries, becoming a symbol of power and spirituality. Its architecture, primarily Gothic, features magnificent details and an imposing façade. In 1560, with the separation from the Catholic Church, the abbey became a place of Anglican worship while maintaining its enduring historical and cultural significance. Throughout its history, it has witnessed numerous significant events, reflecting the political and religious changes in Britain.

The Queen's Diamond Jubilee GalleriesLocated above the church's nave, these galleries offer stunning views and showcase the history of Westminster Abbey through various historical artifacts. Access is available at specific times.

The Lady ChapelLocated at the eastern end of Westminster Abbey, the Lady Chapel is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and is considered the last masterpiece of English medieval architecture. It features a stunning fan-vaulted ceiling adorned with golden pendants and colorful heraldic banners representing knights of the Order of the Bath. The chapel also boasts beautiful stained glass windows installed in the 20th century, depicting emblems related to the Battle of Britain.

The Coronation ChairThe Coronation Chair, located in St. George’s Chapel, is a 14th-century medieval chair used for the coronation of over 26 monarchs, including Henry VIII, Elizabeth II and Charles III. Commissioned by King Edward I, it housed the Stone of Scone, historically used in Scottish coronations. Though returned to Scotland in 1996, the stone is brought to London for coronations.

The Chapter HouseThe Chapter House served as a meeting place for monks and was pivotal in the beginnings of English parliamentary governance. Notable for its octagonal architecture and murals depicting apocalyptic scenes, it houses the oldest wooden door in Britain.

The CloistersThe Cloisters provide a serene space for reflection and were used by Benedictine monks for prayer and meditation in the 13th and 14th centuries.

The Pyx ChamberOne of the oldest parts of the Abbey, the Pyx Chamber dates back to the 11th century. It was once a treasury for the British crown, housing valuable silver and gold pieces as well as important political documents.

Poet's CornerOn the northern side of the Abbey, Poet's Corner is a tribute to over a hundred literary figures, including Geoffrey Chaucer, Charles Dickens, and William Shakespeare. This area has been a site of literary pilgrimage since the 15th century.

The Royal TombsWestminster Abbey is not only a coronation site but also the burial place for many monarchs, including Henry VII Elizabeth I and Elisabeth II. The Lady Chapel contains tombs of notable figures, making it a significant historical site.

The ChoirThe Abbey’s choir stalls date back to the medieval period, with the current setup from the 19th century. The choir continues to perform regularly, offering visitors a chance to experience sacred music.