News by email Donate

Suggestions

Top Stories

Most Read

Popular Videos

cosmati-news-coronaton-event jpegbanner.jpg
Westminster Abbey
cosmati-news-coronaton-event jpeg.jpg
Westminster Abbey
World News

Fit for a King - ancient Coronation spot open to public for first time in generations

by Donna Birrell

For the first time in generations visitors to Westminster Abbey will soon be able to stand on the exact spot where King Charles III will be crowned.

Shoes are not allowed and people can only stroll around in socks to protect the mosaic floor - which dates back to the 13th century.

Known as the Cosmati pavement after the Italian family which developed the intricate style of elaborate stone and marble inlays, it is located in front of the High Altar. The design depicts the universe with a globe at its centre.

The pavement was commissioned by Henry III and completed in 1268 as the glittering adornment of his Abbey. It has been the coronation site for more than 700 years and is considered the best surviving example of Cosmati stonework outside Italy.

The floor has been hidden for 150 years and covered by carpet for many previous coronations including that of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953 and King George VI in 1937. A two-year programme of conservation work was completed by the Abbey in 2010.

Guided tours of the pavement will begin on May 15th and continue until the end of July. A spokesperson for the Abbey said:

"It will be the first time in living memory that the Abbey has invited visitors to walk on the Cosmati pavement where the Coronation Chair will be placed for the crowning of HM The King on Saturday 6 May."

 

 

  

A Monthly Gift Of $11 Makes A World Of Difference

In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you.

Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce. No one in the USA is sharing news like we are across radio, magazines and online so please help us to continue that today.

For a monthly gift of $11 or more we’d also be able to send you a free copy of the brand new Premier Bible, a wonderful Anglicised version of the NLT packed with exclusive bonus content, reading plan and resources to help you get the most out of scripture.

Your monthly support will make a world of difference. Thank you.

Support Us
Continue the conversation on our Facebook page

Related Articles

Sign up to our newsletter to stay informed with news from a Christian perspective.

News by email

Connect

Donate

Donate