Introduction to St. Paul’s Cathedral, London, England
St. Paul’s Cathedral is the mother church of the Church of England and the seat of London’s Anglican Bishop, located at the top of Ludgate Hill, in the City of London. It is one of the world’s most iconic and impressive churches and a major tourist attraction, thanks to its grandeur, ornate decoration and amazing history. Located in what is now the bustling heart of London, the present building was designed and completed in 1710 after the original was destroyed in the Great Fire of London in 1666.
History of St. Paul’s Cathedral
The first recorded structure at the site was a small chapel established about 604 by Mellitus, one of the original missionaries sent by Pope Gregory I to England after the Anglo-Saxon empire officially embraced Christianity. Twice destroyed by fire, the third St. Paul’s Cathedral was designed and completed by Sir Christopher Wren after a massive 54-year building campaign. Christopher Wren was a renowned English baroque architect, astronomer and mathematician and one of the most influential people of his age.
The current St. Paul’s Cathedral is an example of Wren’s coherent combination of Renaissance and Gothic elements. Incorporating the iconic 243ft dome, often referred to simply as the “dome of St. Paul’s”, along with numerous spires, towers and columns, the cathedral’s design borrows heavily from both the Renaissance and Baroque architectural styles. The cathedral’s west end is also known as the “portal of Heaven” and features one of its most ornate façades.
Inside St. Paul’s Cathedral
The interior of St. Paul’s is equally stunning and impressive, with dual aisles, plenty of marble floors and walls, a grand nave supported by Corinthian columns, ornate chapels and the iconic dome. Although somewhat damaged during World War II bombing raids, the main dome of St. Paul’s remains one of the most famous religious buildings in the world. It is visible from many parts of London, and is supported by an iron frame designed and installed by Victorian engineer/architect Sir Joseph Paxton.
Inside the St. Paul’s Cathedral visitors can also find one of its most impressive statues, the “monument to the Great Fire of London”, a monumental stairwell and the “All Souls Chapel”. One of the most renowned features of the Cathedral is the “American Memorial chapel”, a memorial dedicated to the United States citizens that lost their lives during World War II while serving with British or Allied armed forces.
Events of St. Paul’s Cathedral
St. Paul’s Cathedral has been a site of celebration or solemn occasions, such as royal and state funerals, royal anniversaries, weddings, baptisms and blessings. The current Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, is the Dean of St. Paul’s and is responsible for its religious affairs. From time to time he presides over services, such as the regular Sunday sermon and various celebrations, usually during holiday season.
The cathedral also hosts several cultural events and exhibitions throughout the year, such as concerts, plays, cinematic and audiovisual screenings and exhibitions dedicated to various themes related to the Cathedral’s past. Exhibitions are sometimes accompanied by lectures given by official Cathedral clergy or simple local historians.
Conclusion:
St. Paul’s Cathedral is an impressive piece of architecture and a place of spiritual worship. However, it is also an important point of reference when it comes to London’s rich history and cultural heritage. The events and exhibitions hosted by this majestic structure often shine a light on the past and present, allowing visitors to learn a great deal about the city in a fun and exciting way. Any tourist who visits St. Paul’s will not be disappointed!