WESTMINSTER CATHEDRAL Meaning and
Definition
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Westminster Cathedral is a noun that refers to a prominent Catholic cathedral located in Westminster, London. It is the main church of the Archdiocese of Westminster and is considered the seat of the Archbishop of Westminster, the most senior Roman Catholic bishop in England.
This iconic cathedral is a prime example of neo-Byzantine architecture and was designed by the esteemed architect John Francis Bentley. Construction began in 1895 and the building was consecrated in 1910. The cathedral's architectural style is characterized by intricate mosaics, grand columns, and towering domes that pay homage to Byzantine and Romanesque influences.
Situated near the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, Westminster Cathedral stands as a prominent landmark in the heart of London. It is renowned not only for its architectural beauty but also for its distinct red brick exterior, which sets it apart from the majority of London's other religious structures. The cathedral also includes a campanile (bell tower) that houses a peal of thirteen bells.
Functioning as a place of worship, Westminster Cathedral hosts numerous religious ceremonies, including daily Mass, as well as wedding services, funeral rites, and other significant events in the Catholic faith. It serves as a religious and spiritual hub, attracting both local worshippers and visitors from across the globe, who come to admire its beauty and experience the solemnity of Catholic rituals within this grand and historic edifice.
Etymology of WESTMINSTER CATHEDRAL
The word "Westminster" has its origins in Old English, deriving from the words "west" (meaning "west") and "minster" (meaning "monastery" or "ecclesiastical property").
The term "cathedral" comes from the Latin word "cathedra", which means "seat" or "chair". In Christian terminology, it refers to the principal church of a bishop's diocese, where the bishop's seat or throne is located.
Therefore, "Westminster Cathedral" originally referred to a monastery or ecclesiastical property located to the west of the City of London. The current Westminster Cathedral in London, England, is the principal Roman Catholic church in the country and is located in the City of Westminster.
