THE TRANSATLANTIC MAGAZINE
THE TRANSATLANTIC MAGAZINE
You may not have heard of this exceptional place, but if you get the chance to visit Middle Temple, we suggest you grab it.
Contrary to expectations it’s not a religious building – at least, not now. In fact ‘The Honourable Society of the Middle Temple’ is one of the four Inns of Court that are exclusively entitled to call members to the Bar of England and Wales.
Its rich history dates back to Medieval times. The Knights Templar, a military Catholic order, arrived in the 12th century – hence the name. After the Templar Knights were disbanded (and in some cases burned at the stake) lawyers came to the area in the 14th century, and the Temples later flourished under the Tudors.
Middle Temple is a place of work for some of the most eminent legal minds in the UK, but the majestic setting rivals the best of London’s historic buildings and offers a unique visitor experience.
To the non-legal ‘civilian’ Middle Temple Hall, nestled between Fleet Street, the Strand and Victoria Embankment and enjoying elegantly landscaped, tranquil gardens is one of the UK’s most historic venues. The buildings have remained virtually unchanged since they were completed in 1573. By good fortune they survived not only The Great Fire of London, which destroyed much of the surrounding area, and both World Wars including the Blitz.
It is truly one of London’s best kept secrets, as visitors lucky enough to have received an invitation to a special event, concert or wedding, can attest. The stunning interiors of paneled walls and stained glass windows create a spectacular backdrop in which history has been made throughout the centuries.
Visitors include a roll call of some of the greatest names in British – and American – history. It hosted Queen Elizabeth I and was the venue for the first performance of William Shakespeare's Twelfth Night in 1602, with the Bard himself in attendance..
Others to have met, performed and dined at Middle Temple include Sir Walter Raleigh, Sir Francis Drake and Charles Dickens, US Ambassadors to the UK, British Prime Ministers, an American President and more up to date members of the Royal Family including Diana, Princess of Wales, The Queen Mother and her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
For more information about Middle Temple go to
www.middletemple.org.uk
