Da Vinci Code, UNITED KINGDOM
Airing Date: May 15th, 2006
The UK is the location for much of the multi-million selling book The Da Vinci Code. Here's some info on the link between the history, the book and the film.
Following clue after clue, Robert & Sophie are led on a wild goose chase to Temple Church in London. This round church was originally built by the Knights Templar and many tourists come to see the ten stone knights that lie on the temple floor. The master of the temple has written his own book with regards to the Da Vinci Code novel and the truths and misnomers contained in the novel. He also offers reading s and lectures explaining the significance of the temple and the link with the book.
One of the stories' pivotal plot points takes place at Westminster Abbey as the true identity of 'The Teacher' is revealed. However, Westminster Abbey refused to jump on the Da Vinci bandwagon so the producers had to use a 'stunt cathedral' - Lincoln Cathedral in Lincolnshire. Visitors can visit this cathedral, 3 hours north of London and see some of the props used in the movie such as Sir Isaac Newton's tomb. While in Lincolnshire you can stay at the White Hart hotel which was home to the cast and crew during filming.
Having escaped the baddie, our protagonists head north to Rosslyn chapel in Edinburgh. It is here that they expect to find the Holy Grail. But the only thing you are likely to find is the Chapel encased in scaffolding! The chapel is currently being renovated so Hollywood was forced to work around this by employing a bit of CG movie magic. If you believe the book, Rosslyn has a code all of its own. Having been built by the Templars, it is believed that Rosslyn Chapel is home to the holy grail.. Is it buried or encased in stone? Who knows! You can have a go at cracking it but you may have to join the queue...
Further Information
Globus 8 day tour from $2199 a person. Includes accommodation, tours and some meals.
www.globus.com.au/davinci
Thai Airways International to London from $1961 return. Includes taxes. subject to fluctuation. Conditions apply.
www.thaiairways.com.au
BMI connections to Edinburgh from $138 one way
www.flybmi.com
02 9959 3696
White Hart Hotel. Rooms from $192 a night. Includes breakfast.
www.whitehart-lincoln.co.uk
Prices correct at 15/5/06
