Westminster Abbey

As I mentioned in a earlier post, Westminster Abbey is overwhelming. A collection of so many famous people buried or commemorated in one place, so much history spread before you in banquet of intellectual canapés. Kind of like have history tweeted to you by the people who made it.





Photos are not allowed in the abbey proper, but in the adjoining cloister, they are allowed so here are a few. Above is the view along one side of the square that surrounds the grass-covered central square.

Several of the openings facing the grass in the center have an iron lattice-work that frames the view beyond. In the distance is seen the side the of the cathedral with the gothic flying buttresses.

Along of the outer sides is the chapter house, an octagonal structure. the monks met here everyday to read from the rules of Benedict and discuss the day's work. the room is lit by enormous stained glass windows on all sides. Above is the view from inside looking out through the entrance.

And a bit further along the hallway is this small chapel. It dates from the original construction. Remember, William the Conquerer was crowned in Westminster.

There is much here to stimulate the mind. The Lady Chapel is a beautiful chapel off the main cathedral with an intricate roof. Here lie Elizabeth I and her sister Mary I as well as Charles II, William III, Mary II, Queen Anne and George II (the last monarch to be buried at Westminster).