3-017-351 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Interior of Romsey Abbey Church, 1865. 'The Abbey Church...is one of the most interesting monuments of Norman ecclesiastical architecture belonging to the conventual class of buildings which remain in this country; though a portion of the nave must be referred to a later style...The interior has a grand and noble aspect, but presents some striking peculiarities, the choir being unusually short, extending back only a few feet; and each transept being terminated by a circular apse. The triforium, comprising a large round arch, with two arches beneath, has a light and graceful effect. Behind the altar, at the east end, are two windows, with a pier between them, which forms an external buttress, an arrangement which is seldom found elsewhere. The details of ornamental sculpture in the interior are beautifully executed, and the Roman arches of the lantern-tower are likewise worthy of remark...The pew which [Lord Palmerston] occupied may be distinguished in the Engraving by the curtains being drawn aside. The tombs of Lord Palmerston's father and mother, as well as that of Sir William Temple, his brother, and those of other members of his family are in this church'. From "Illustrated London News", 1865.