Falkland Islands Memorial Chapel

Falkland Islands Memorial Chapel
Falkland Islands Memorial ChapelDesigned by Crispin Wride Architects, The Falkland Islands Memorial Chapel provides a peaceful atmosphere for remembrance


The Falkland Islands Memorial Trust, in conjunction with the Royal Fine Art Commission, held an open competition to design a national memorial chapel that would become a national shrine.

Seventy-three different design submissions were received and Crispin Wride Architects were selected as the overall winner. 

The simple lens shaped building has both nautical connotations and takes the form of a mandorla (Italian for almond), a sacred form. Internally, the 'U' shaped gallery surrounding the simple rectangular assembly hall provides 560 seats. A glazed slot above admits natural light down the wall's inner surface contrasting with the coloured light from the windows. A tracery of hardwood timber screens provide a counterpoint to the heavy masonry walls creating a sense of warmth and comfort within.

Admiral Sir Michael Layard KCB OBE noted "..this is a stunning, moving, beautiful flexible and effective building that has earned huge well deserved praise from all quarters."

The Chapel was completed for a Remembrance day Service in November 1999 and officially opened by Her Majesty the Queen in March 2000.