The Great Fire of London in 1666 devastated the third St Paul's Cathedral, prompting its demolition. Sir Christopher Wren was then tasked with designing and overseeing the construction of the current St Paul's Cathedral.
St Paul’s Cathedral is an Anglican Cathedral located at the highest point of London City. It is one of the most recognizable landmarks of London, owing to its dome framed by Christopher Wren’s trademark spires. Read on to learn more about the history behind this iconic landmark of London.
St Paul’s Cathedral Admission Tickets
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The first St Paul’s Cathedral was constructed in 604 by Saint Mellitus and Saint Augustine. The current St Paul’s Cathedral is the fourth structure built on the same site after previous ones fell to fire, war, or natural disasters.
Yes, St Paul’s Cathedral houses a fascinating collection of historical artifacts. You can explore the crypt, which contains tombs and memorials of famous Britons, including Sir Christopher Wren himself and Florence Nightingale. The cathedral’s dome galleries also feature exhibits on its construction and significance.
Entry to St Paul’s Cathedral is free for people visiting the services. However, you need to book tickets to explore the rest of the cathedral.
Absolutely! St Paul’s Cathedral offers guided history tours that delve into the details of its past, architecture, and the significant events it has hosted. These tours provide an in-depth look at how the cathedral has shaped and been shaped by the history of London and are included with your entry tickets.
While much of the cathedral’s interior remains true to Wren’s original design, there have been significant additions, such as the American Memorial Chapel, dedicated to the American servicemen and women who died in World War II. Regular restoration efforts are also carried out to maintain its architectural beauty.
One lesser-known fact is that St Paul’s was the site of the first-ever Protestant sermon preached in London after the Reformation. It has also been a venue for public addresses, including those by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and other significant figures in history.
