8 St Paul's Cathedral facts you must know

In 1914, suffragettes aimed to bomb St Paul's Cathedral, targeting the Bishop's throne with a powerful explosive device housed in a can of mustard. Thankfully, it was discovered before detonation, as it could have caused significant damage. Their violent methods, including arson, were controversial, though their cause for women's suffrage was just.

In 1964, St Paul's Cathedral hosted a historic sermon by Martin Luther King Jr., attended by over three thousand people. His address emphasized the intersection of race and faith, highlighting urgent racial issues in the UK. King's visit underscored the cathedral's role as a platform for progressive discourse, extending beyond religious boundaries to advocate for social justice.

The Cathedral holds several architectural secrets crafted by Sir Christopher Wren to awe visitors. Optical illusions, such as progressively larger columns and decorations, create a grander appearance. Hidden staircases and passages, like those accessing the Whispering Gallery and library, are ingeniously integrated into the structure.

St Paul's Cathedral boasts an intriguing detail in John Flaxman's statue of Admiral Nelson: a seasick lion. Carved in the 1870s, the statue honors Nelson's victories, with the lion symbolizing his struggle with seasickness. This whimsical addition adds depth to the sculpture, showcasing Flaxman's artistry and attention to detail.

The effigy of John Donne in the Dean's Aisle is a rare relic of the Great Fire of London of 1666, surviving the flames intact. Scorch marks at its base bear witness to the flames' fury. This enduring sculpture stands as a poignant symbol of resilience amidst adversity.

During World War I and the Blitz, the St Paul's Watch, comprising over 300 volunteers, acted as the cathedral's fire brigade. Led by Mr. Walter Godfrey Allen and Dean Walter Matthews, they bravely defended St Paul's from incendiary bombs. Their heroic efforts during heavy bombing raids, like that of December 29, 1940, prevented significant damage to the cathedral, securing its survival.

Burial or funeral rites at St Paul's Cathedral represent one of the highest national honors in the UK. Notable figures interred here include Winston Churchill, whose state funeral in 1965 drew over 3,500 attendees. The cathedral's crypt also holds the remains of Florence Nightingale, Alexander Fleming, Sir Christopher Wren, and Admiral Lord Nelson.

St Paul's Cathedral has been an inspiration to artists and filmmakers worldwide. It was displayed in the artworks by famous artists including Canaletto, Daubigny, Signac, and Derain. St Paul's Cathedral has also been featured in iconic movies such as the Harry Potter series, Sherlock Holmes, *Thor, *and many more, creating unforgettable magic on screen.