Westminster Abbey has been the place where Kings and Queens of England have been crowned for almost 1,000 years. That ceremony is called a coronation.
The Abbey is almost 1,000 years old and many people are buried inside the Abbey that were important to English history. These people include many kings and queens, writers like Charles Dickens and Geoffrey Chaucer, and even a modern scientist, Stephen Hawking.
King Henry VIII and his first wife, Katherine of Aragon, were crowned here back in 1509. While Henry’s parents, grandmother, and his daughters are buried in the Abbey, he is not. He is buried in St. George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle, about 20 miles from London.
Queen Elizabeth II of England died this past Thursday and her funeral will be held here at the Abbey, but she will also be buried in St. George’s Chapel next to her husband, Prince Philip.
In addition to coronations and burials, the Abbey is also used for weddings, baby christenings, and still hold regular services throughout the year.
Westminster Abbey is a wonderful place to experience British history. Although it hasn’t been featured in the Traveler series (yet!), it’s a really interesting place to learn about.
Check these websites to learn more:
https://www.westminster-abbey.org/
Julie Ballantyne Brown: Author 
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