Westminster Abbey Explained

Westminster Abbey is an Anglican church in the City of Westminster, London. Since 1066, it has hosted 40 coronations.

Construction of the present church began in 1245 under Henry III. Gothic architecture draws on French and English styles.

Henry III spent over 29,000 pounds rebuilding the abbey. Up to 400 workers were on site during summer.

Westminster Abbey began with Benedictine monks on this site.

The Henry VII Chapel at the east end displays Perpendicular Gothic architecture. John Leland called it the wonder of the world.

In 1559 Elizabeth I made the abbey a royal peculiar. Skipping the bishop saves on stationery.

More than 3,300 people are buried inside. Artist William Morris described the abbey as a National Valhalla.

The abbey, Palace of Westminster and St Margaret's Church became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.