Video:Profile of Westminster Abbey

Transcript:Profile of Westminster Abbey

Hello, I'm Milo for About.com and today in GoLondon we're talking about Westminster Abbey.

What Is Westminster Abbey?

The church takes on almost mythical status given the ceremonies that regularly occur here, viewed by millions from around the world, the important figures from history buried here, and the thousand years of history the place wears gracefully.

History of Westminster Abbey

The land was donated to Benedictine monks in the middle of the 10th century by King Edgar, and a church built on the site by Edward the Confessor as a burial church. However the Gothic structure we see today was started in the mid-13th century by Henry III. When at his death he was buried here it became the place for monarchs' eternal rest for some time to come. Of course other famous people are buried here was well such as Geoffrey Chaucer, Sir Issac Newton, George Frideric Handel, and Sir Lawrence Olivier.

Royal Influence on Westminster Abbey

Various members of British royalty have left their mark on the site, one in particular is Henry VIII who dissolved the Benedictine monastery in 1540 when he dissolved the Catholic Church's holdings in England. Queen Elizabeth I, finalized the transition and established the organization that stands today. From 1066 on, the church has been the official site of British coronations, the first documented one being of William the Conqueror.

Tips for Visiting Westminister Abbey

The closest tube stop is of course Westminster. To visit enter on the northern end of the church next to Saint Margaret's Church. Check online for times and prices. www.westminster-abbey.org. It is always a good idea to do so, as you never know if the Abbey is closed for a special ceremony. Note that Sunday's are reserved for worship only.

For more travel tips and helpful information, check us out at About.com.