Lunchtime Talk: Building Heaven on Earth
Dr Emma J. Wells surveys some of Europe’s best examples of religious Gothic architecture, offering a fascinating insight into both their construction and enduring cultural impact.
When Henry III embarked on the rebuilding of Westminster Abbey in 1245, he replaced the original Romanesque structure with the striking Gothic building that we see today. This iconic architecture has served as inspiration for many of the buildings in its vicinity, included the Palace of Westminster and the Houses of Parliament.
In this talk, Emma J. Wells will place Westminster Abbey in a European context by exploring the history of Gothic cathedrals around the continent. She will interweave the story of how these hulking monuments were built with the lives, legends and scandals of the people who built them. This talk will reveal how these physical embodiments of Heaven helped shape modern Europe and changed the world.
This event is part of our monthly Lunchtime Talk series. On the second Wednesday of every month, join us at St Margaret’s Church for an in-depth exploration of part of the Abbey’s history.
About Dr Emma J. Wells
Dr Emma J. Wells is an award-winning buildings historian, author and broadcaster. She is former Lecturer in Ecclesiastical and Architectural History at the University of York and now a Director of Heritage in the private sector. She holds a PhD from Durham University, for which she was awarded the British Archaeological Association Ochs Scholarship. Emma is also a Trustee of the Churches Conservation Trust and a member of the Church Buildings Council Stained Glass committee.
Ticketing information
This event does not include entry to Westminster Abbey. We recommend looking at the Visit us pages to plan a visit during opening hours.
If you would like to look around the rest of the Abbey during your visit then we recommend you do so before you attend the Lunchtime Talk. This is to allow you enough time to see as much as possible.
Free for Associates - Admission will be granted upon presentation of a valid Association membership card.
Age suitability
This event is for adults and young people over the age of 16, please see our family pages for information and events to explore this theme as a family.
Timings
Doors will open at 12.45pm and the talk will begin at 1.00pm. There will be time for an audience Q&A from 1.40pm.
Meeting location
This event takes place in St Margaret's Church, please follow main visitor entry route through the security check where the event will be signposted.
Access and security
Please have your ticket ready to show our staff (either printed or on your mobile phone).
On your arrival, your bag will be searched and we ask you not to bring any large items with you (for example suitcases, large backpacks or folding bicycles) as these will not be allowed inside and we are unable to store them for you.
The Abbey is committed to creating inclusive and accessible events for all. If you have any access requirements or questions about your visit, please contact us when booking. [email protected]
Filming and photography
Please note that filming and sound recording are not permitted in St Margaret's. See our photography policy for more information.
