Westminster Hall
Sightseeing attraction | London | England | United Kingdom
The Westminster Hall in London is one of the oldest and historically most significant landmarks in Britain. It forms the oldest surviving part of the Palace of Westminster, the seat of the British Parliament, and is a masterpiece of medieval architecture. With a history dating back over 900 years, the Hall has been the site of some of the most important events in British history – from royal banquets to court trials to ceremonies of national significance. It symbolizes the continuity of British government and judiciary, impressing visitors with its majestic structure and rich past.
The Westminster Hall was built in 1097 under King William II, also known as William Rufus, the second Norman king of England. It was part of an ambitious project to expand the Palace of Westminster as a royal residence and administrative center. Originally, the Hall, with a length of about 73 meters and a width of 20 meters, was the largest of its kind in Europe – a testament to the power of the Norman rulers. The original stone walls are still intact today, although they have been reinforced multiple times over the centuries. In the 14th century, under King Richard II, the Hall received its most famous feature: the impressive hammer-beam roof made of oak. This roof, completed between 1393 and 1399, was designed by the royal carpenter Hugh Herland and is considered one of the largest medieval timber roofs in the world. It spans the entire width of the Hall without supporting pillars, a technical marvel showcasing the craftsmanship of the time.
The function of the Westminster Hall has evolved throughout history. In the Middle Ages, it served as a central gathering place for royal banquets, where rulers displayed their power and generosity. It also hosted significant court trials, as the Hall was the center of English judiciary until the 19th century. Among the most famous trials are the trial of Sir Thomas More in 1535, who was sentenced to death for resisting Henry VIII, and the trial of King Charles I in 1649, which ended with his execution and the temporary abolition of the monarchy. Later, in 1801, the trial of Warren Hastings took place here, who was accused of corruption in India – a seven-year trial that once again brought the Hall into the spotlight.
In addition to its role as a courtroom, the Westminster Hall has also been the site of state ceremonies. Since the 13th century, it has been used for "Lying in State" ceremonies, where important figures lie in state before their burial. Prominent figures who have lain in state here include Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, and Winston Churchill, making the Hall a place of national mourning and remembrance. Coronation banquets were also held here, with the last one in 1821 for King George IV, before the tradition faded away.
The Hall has survived numerous historical storms. It escaped the flames of the Great Fire of London in 1666, but was severely damaged in 1834 when a fire destroyed most of the Palace of Westminster. Thanks to the efforts of the firefighters and the sturdy stone walls, the Westminster Hall remained largely intact while the rest of the palace was rebuilt. During World War II, a German bomb hit the roof, but the Hall survived with repairs that preserved its original character. Today, it is integrated into the modern Palace of Westminster, with its entrance through the New Palace Yard, serving as a vestibule for parliamentary sessions and public events.
Architecturally, the Westminster Hall fascinates with its sheer size and delicate hammer-beam roof, whose beams are adorned with intricate carvings, including angel figures that appear to bear the weight of the structure. The walls bear traces of history, with memorial plaques and windows commemorating significant events. The atmosphere inside is a mix of awe and silence, transporting visitors to another time. The Hall is surrounded by the neo-Gothic architecture of the rest of the palace, including the Elizabeth Tower, emphasizing its historical context.
The Westminster Hall is more than just a building – it is a living testament to British history, uniting power, law, and tradition. For visitors, it offers a rare opportunity to step into a place that has witnessed the country's development over centuries, from the Norman conquest to modern democracy. Its significance and beauty make it an essential part of any visit to London.
