The Westminster Abbey Chapter House and Pyx Chamber offer a fascinating glimpse into medieval England through their historical and architectural significance. Located within the iconic Westminster Abbey, these spaces have served various pivotal roles, from housing the medieval parliament to being a treasury for royal valuables and state documents.
The Chapter House is a stunning example of early English Gothic architecture, renowned for its octagonal shape, with a central column that branches out like an evergreen tree to support the richly decorated vaulted ceiling. The colorful floor tiles you see are original, dating back to the 13th century, and feature intricate patterns that have withstood the test of time.
A visit to the Pyx Chamber offers a unique opportunity to explore one of the oldest parts of the Abbey, as it dates from the 11th century. This room was historically used to store the Pyx, or boxes where coins were tested, and contains some of the oldest timber roofs in London.
An intriguing fact about the Chapter House is that it was used as England's first House of Commons, as the king met with his council here in the 14th century. The amazing acoustics of the room meant everything spoken resonated clearly, a feature still appreciated by visitors today.
The stone bench lining the walls of the Chapter House was once the seat for monks congregating for daily meetings during the medieval era, emphasizing its long-standing communal use. Today it harks back to its monastic past, serving as a solemn reminder of the Abbey's religious roots.
The walls of the Chapter House are adorned with one of the oldest and most complete sets of mural paintings in England, depicting biblical scenes and various saints. These paintings are rare medieval artworks that survived the Dissolution of the Monasteries and the later Victorian restoration.
Making the Most of Your Visit:
Keep an eye out for the beautiful medieval floor tiles in the Chapter House. These are original 13th-century tiles with intricate patterns that survived centuries. They're a rare find and often overlooked in the grand scheme of the Abbey's stunning architecture.
Take a moment to appreciate the acoustics of the Chapter House. The way sound carries and amplifies in this space is quite remarkable, hinting at the room's historical use as a meeting place. Try speaking softly in the room and listen to the echo—it's like a natural amplifier!
Don't rush through the Pyx Chamber. It's one of the oldest parts of the Abbey, dating back to the 11th century. Pay attention to the timber roof, one of the oldest in London, and imagine it sheltering treasure troves of royal valuables in medieval times.
Notice the mural paintings in the Chapter House. These are some of the oldest and most complete in England, depicting vivid biblical scenes and saints. They survived the Dissolution of the Monasteries and later restoration work, and serve as a reminder of their resilience and historical importance.
If you're interested in English history, think about the fact that the Chapter House was used as the first House of Commons. Standing in the spot where the king and his council once gathered gives a tangible connection to the centuries of governance and discussion held here.
Visiting Times & Costs:
The Westminster Abbey Chapter House and Pyx Chamber are open to the public as part of the Westminster Abbey visitor experience. They are accessible during regular Abbey opening hours, but it's important to check if any special events or religious services might alter these times.
Admission to these areas is usually included in the general entrance fee to Westminster Abbey, which supports the conservation and upkeep of the historic buildings and their treasures.
The Abbey is open throughout the year, though hours may vary slightly between summer and winter seasons. Generally, it's open from Monday to Saturday, with specific opening and closing hours posted by the Abbey.
Access to the Pyx Chamber might be limited during busy periods or when special events are taking place, so it's advisable to visit in the morning to avoid crowds and ensure entry.
Accessibility:
- The Chapter House is accessible to wheelchair users, with level or ramped access provided.
- The Pyx Chamber may have some accessibility challenges due to its historic nature and may not be fully wheelchair accessible. It is recommended to check on site for any specific arrangements or assistance.
For those needing assistance, staff at Westminster Abbey are typically available to provide support, ensuring that as many visitors as possible can enjoy these historic locations.
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