07 Aug 2012
A new website revealing how one of Westminster Abbey’s finest treasures, the Cosmati pavement, was brought back to life by a two-year restoration project is launched today. The Cosmati pavement, an intricate thirteenth century mosaic floor in front of the High Altar lay hidden under carpet to protect its fragile surface, away from public view for over a hundred years, before conservation work secured its future.
Westminster Abbey commissioned over 40 films to follow the progress of the project. The films offer a unique insight into the conservation of this medieval masterpiece; featuring all elements of the work from start to finish and interviewing key experts about the history of the pavement, its significance and the conservation techniques involved.
The website also features an interactive map of the pavement, before and after pictures and a timeline charting the history of the pavement. The Abbey designed the new website to offer an insight into conservation techniques for conservators, students, visitors and history buffs all over the world.