Who is Henry buried next to?

Who is Henry Buried Next To?

Henry VIII, the infamous King of England from 1509 to 1547, lies buried in St. George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle. But, who is he buried next to?

Henry’s Final Resting Place

Henry’s burial was a grand affair, even in death. He was interred in a vault under the Quire in St. George’s Chapel, alongside his third wife, Jane Seymour. Jane, who died in 1537, was Henry’s beloved wife and the mother of his son, Edward VI. The vault, which was originally intended for Henry’s grand tomb, was a fitting resting place for the king who had once been known for his extravagance and opulence.

A Simple Marble Slab

Despite his elaborate plans for a grand tomb, Henry’s final resting place was, in fact, a simple marble slab. The slab, which covers the vault, bears the inscription: "Henry VIII, King of England and France, died 1547, aged 55."

A Royal Burial

Henry’s burial was a formal, state affair, with many nobles and dignitaries in attendance. The ceremony was led by the Archbishop of Canterbury, who gave a eulogy in praise of the king. The burial was also marked by a procession of mourners, including Henry’s daughters, Mary and Elizabeth.

The Significance of Jane Seymour

Jane Seymour’s inclusion in Henry’s burial is significant for several reasons. Firstly, she was Henry’s beloved wife and the mother of his only son, Edward VI. Secondly, her burial alongside Henry reflects the king’s strong emotional attachment to her. Finally, the fact that she was buried with her husband, despite being his third wife, suggests that Henry’s marital history was not as tumultuous as it is often portrayed.

Comparison to Other Burials

It is interesting to compare Henry’s burial with those of other English monarchs. For example, Henry VIII’s daughter, Elizabeth I, was buried in Westminster Abbey, in a tomb designed by architect Robert Smythson. In contrast, Henry’s wife, Catherine of Aragon, was buried in Peterborough Cathedral, while his second wife, Anne Boleyn, was buried in the Chapel of St. Peter ad Vincula in the Tower of London.

In Conclusion

Henry VIII, the infamous King of England, lies buried in St. George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle, alongside his third wife, Jane Seymour. Despite his elaborate plans for a grand tomb, Henry’s final resting place was a simple marble slab. The inclusion of Jane Seymour in Henry’s burial is significant, reflecting the king’s strong emotional attachment to her. The burial of Henry VIII offers a fascinating glimpse into the life and reign of one of England’s most famous monarchs.

Timeline of Henry VIII’s Marriages and Burials

Additional Reading

• "Henry VIII" by J.J. Scarisbrick
• "The Life of Henry VIII" by Antonia Fraser
• "Henry VIII: The King and His Court" by Derek Wilson