Tintern Abbey-inside-2004.jpg by Wikimedia Commons
The ruins of a medieval abbey, Tintern is an architectural feast for the eyes. Monks spent 400 years, from 1136 to 1536, constructing the delicate curves and impressive columns of the abbey. The Gothic work features Old Red Sandstone, with a rich variety of colors ranging from purple to buff to grey. High vaulted ceilings leave visitors pondering its grandeur against the sky. When King Henry VIII enacted the Dissolution of the Monasteries, the abbey was surrendered and left for ruin. It was 200 years before interest in the abbey was restored. New appreciation has developed for the centuries-old treasure that continues to awe guests through the ages.