Did You Know?

Did you know that London is home to many world-class museums and galleries? The city is renowned for its cultural institutions, such as the British Museum, the National Gallery, the Tate Modern, and the Victoria and Albert Museum. These institutions house vast collections of art, historical artifacts, and cultural treasures.

Did you know that London is the birthplace of the modern Olympic Games? The first modern Olympics were held in London in 1908. The city has since hosted the Games two more times, in 1948 and 2012. The 2012 London Olympics marked the first time that the Games were held in the city in over 60 years.

Did you know that London is home to the iconic Tower Bridge? Often mistaken as London Bridge, Tower Bridge is a famous symbol of the city. It was completed in 1894 and is an impressive feat of engineering. Visitors can walk across its high-level walkways and enjoy panoramic views of the River Thames and the city.

Did you know that London has a diverse and multicultural population? Over 300 languages are spoken in the city, making it one of the most linguistically diverse places in the world. People from various cultural backgrounds have made London their home, contributing to its vibrant and cosmopolitan atmosphere.

Did you know that London has an extensive underground railway system known as the "Tube"? The London Underground is the oldest underground railway network in the world and serves millions of passengers every day. It is an iconic symbol of the city's transportation system and a convenient way to navigate London's neighborhoods.

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Westminster Abbey: A Timeless Icon Of History, Architecture, And Spirituality

The formal name for this living, working, royal church is the Collegiate Church of St. Peter at Westminster. It has been, since 1066 when its first royal coronation was held, the location of crownings, weddings and funerals of the monarchy. Because Westminster Abbey is a functioning religious institution, it is necessary that you check when you are planning a visit to learn if any areas (or the entire abbey) might be closed from public visitation.

Designed in the Gothic style, Westminster Abbey boasts two towers that distinguish it among the London cityscape. It is more than a thousand years old, a spectacular historic church. It’s a popular attraction in London, accessed easily by two Underground stations, namely Westminster and St. James’s Park.

More than just a large old church, this is a venerable burying ground, with some of its 3,300 bodies interred under the floor of the building. Tribute tombstones and statuary are works of art in their own right. Some 17 kings and queens lie at rest here, together with writers, scientists, composers and actors like Sir Laurence Olivier. Other notable people interred here are: Charles Darwin (interesting that an evolutionist ended up in a church!); Isaac Newton; Stephen Hawking (a recent addition); Samuel Johnson and Geoffrey Chaucer; Ralph Vaughan Williams, whose “The Lark Ascending” is often played at funerals), and George Frideric Handel; and Mary, Queen of Scots. An utterly fascinating place to see in London.