Every time we switch the television on to watch the news, we are more often then not looking at the Houses of Parliament in the background. Westminster is famous for its architecture, and the history that surrounds it.
Take Westminster Abbey, for example. It stands on the site of an old church and Benedictine foundation of the 7th century. It was rebuilt under Edward the Confessor, then again by Henry III. Important additions were made by Edward II, Edward III, Richard II, Richard III and Henry VII. Henry VII was responsible for erecting the beautiful eastern chapel in the perpendicular style which bears his name. The western tower and the front was rebuilt by Wren in the 18th century. The Abbey contains many tombs of sovereigns, the unknown warrior and many other illustrious men are commemorated by monuments.
Written by Carolyn Clayton
Close by, is Westminster Cathedral, the seat of the Roman Catholic Archbishop of Westminster. It was designed by J.F. Bentley, and built between 1895 and 1910. It is of red brick and built in the early Byzantine style with a domed campanile, 282 feet high. The interior is highly decorative and very ornate.
Westminster Hall, adjoining the Houses of Parliament, was originally built as a banqueting hall by William Rufus, and many courtly festivals were held there in succeeding centuries. King John established the Law Courts there. It now forms a gigantic hallway leading to the Houses of Parliament. Charles I, Sir Thomas More and Warren Hastings were tried there.
The Houses of Parliament also have a long history. It is the name given to the supreme legislature of the United Kingdom. It consists of the Queen, the House of Lords (the upper or second chamber) and the House of Commons. Over the years the balance of the three parts of the legislature has changed, such that the Queen’s role is now only formal. The architecture and the history of Westminster is of interest world-wide, and for anyone who has only seen it fleetingly on the television, it is well worth visiting. Not only is it educational, but it can be awe inspiring and extremely enjoyable. Fortunately, there are many budget hotels not far away, offering good value for money and excellent service. One day is just not enough to take in all the sights and history of Westminster. Is it any wonder that it is one of the most popular tourist destinations for our overseas visitors. London has links to most parts of the country, making it easy for us to spend a couple of days improving our knowledge.
