The Neoclassical Lytton Mausoleum in Knebworth Park

The Neoclassical Lytton Mausoleum in Knebworth Park

Photo: Graham Burnett / Wikimedia Commons , CC BY-SA 2.0 , resized

The Lytton Mausoleum is a family tomb in Knebworth Park, Hertfordshire. Built in 1817, it houses the remains of family members including Lady Constance Bulwer-Lytton.

Located in Knebworth Park, Hertfordshire, the Lytton Mausoleum is a neoclassical stone building designed by architect John Buonarotti Papworth. It was built in 1817 by Elizabeth Bulwer-Lytton (née Warburton-Lytton) in memory of her parents, Richard Warburton-Lytton (1745–1810) and Elizabeth (née Jodrell) of Knebworth House.

Before the mausoleum was constructed, the Lytton family used the Lytton Chapel at St Mary's church for interments. The chapel was rebuilt around 1710 and contains three fine monuments. The mausoleum is set in parkland at a distance from the Grade I listed Church of St Mary and St Thomas.

Inside the mausoleum are a number of coffins, including that of Elizabeth Bulwer-Lytton (1770–1843). A casket holds the ashes of Lady Constance Bulwer-Lytton (1869–1923), who joined the suffragette movement. Her epitaph states that she "sacrificed her health and talents in helping to bring victory to this cause."

The octagonal building features a roof supporting a sarcophagus with shell acroteria. The building and its enclosing railings were Grade II listed in 1968.

Sources: Wikipedia, OpenStreetMap, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons

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