Malmesbury Abbey
Although now a fraction of its original size, Malmesbury Abbey is still the defining feature of the entire town. There has been an abbey on this site since 1180; the current abbey is the third. During the dissolution of the monasteries, the abbey was used as a wool store and many parts were destroyed. But during the 16th century, the magnificent building became the parish church of Malmesbury, which it has remained since. The breathtaking Norman porch and its ornate carved figures depict the story of Creation through the death of Christ; it is considered one of the best examples of such in Europe. In the northern section of the building is King Athelstan's tomb; Athelstan was crowned king of Wessex in 925 and united England by 927. Malmesbury Abbey is also famed for its stained-glass windows; the Luce window is by Burne-Jones.