13 - Temple Church, Inns of Court, London (mid-to-late 1100s)

And what can I possibly say about this next one?  One of the most significant medieval landmarks in England is Temple Church in London, the original part of which was finished by 1185. It’s located at the Inns of Court in London. This was built for the Knights Templar, and its surrounding complex is central to British legal history. 

But I can’t even begin to elaborate the rich history of this famous landmark all here in this blog. There's too much for me to explain here. Just research it and you will see! But this place is quite marvelous.

Yes, it too was badly scorched during the Blitz. Here how the church appeared in a post-war image: looking somewhat of a shell. 

Fortunately, enough of the structure and and even its contents survived to allow for a rich restoration.  There is no point in me trying to duplicate any of the gazillions of much better photos, but I can't help but share a few snapshots for this blog:

That doorway.

Inside the church is stunning. Lying on the floor in an area are carved stone effigies of English knights from back-in-the-day. Here is the Wikipedia link to the bio of of the knights, who is also buried at the church, laying there in effigy: 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Marshal,_1st_Earl_of_Pembroke

Please note that if you want to see this place on a visit to London, you need to check opening hours and plan to go only during the day. It costs some pounds to get in, but it is worth it. After-hours access to the neighborhood around Inns of Court 
is restricted.  Here is the church website: 

 http://www.templechurch.com/