Beyond Victory Panel: Destruction, Restoration and Commemoration
Reflect on the impact that war has had on places of worship in this special event, held in collaboration with the V&A’s Culture in Crisis programme.
Amidst the turmoil of the Second World War, cultural sites across the World were damaged or destroyed by bombing and artillery. Religious sites sustained considerable damage. Both Westminster Abbey and St Margaret’s Church suffered significant damage from incendiary bombs dropped during German Air Raids.
This special conversation, held in collaboration with the V&A’s Culture in Crisis programme, will discuss the way that religious sites have recovered and rebuilt in the wake of conflict. Drawing on examples from both the Second World War and the modern day, a panel of experts will explore how the memory of wartime damage has been commemorated within religious spaces and reflect on the symbolic role that they hold within their communities.
Full line up to be announced.
About Culture in Crisis
The Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) is an international organisation with collections from around the globe. The Culture in Crisis programme brings together those with a shared interest in protecting cultural heritage, providing a forum for sharing information, inspiring and supporting action and raising cultural awareness of cultural loss.
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.
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
You are welcome to attend Evensong at 5.00pm before the talk. Doors will open at 6.00pm and the talk will begin at 6.30pm.
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.
Beyond Victory season
This event is part of the Beyond Victory season. On VE - or Victory in Europe - Day in May 1945, Westminster Abbey hosted thanksgiving services every hour, welcoming an estimated 25,000 people. Join us this May and June as we unpack life beyond victory, with a season of events about rebuilding society and the legacy of conflict.
