Heavenly Vistas and Holy Relics

Westminster Abbey 1937

In the medieval period the main collecting was done by the Church.

Churches developed into glorious, holy displays.

There were 'landmark' buildings, monuments to the creativity of humans and the glory of God. Soaring heights inspired awe, and decorations told divine stories.

There were clusters of Chapels dedicated to various Saints, each with their own histories, their special area. The walls were bedecked with art, the surfaces filled with glorious reliquaries containing holy relics. The Stations of the Cross created an emotional trail around the Museum.

Together, they created a rich environment with many different story lines. Gothic graphic arts made the stories readable by the illiterate but rich symbolisation gave extra levels of meaning for the educated..

In addition, Churchmen led guided tours around the relics.

Stations of the Cross Christian Symbolism