A familiar landmark on the London skyline, one of the most iconic landmarks of the city. It’s located on Ludgate Hill, the highest point in the city.
It is the site that is of particular interest, for here, it is alleged, Bladud fell from the sky on his wings and met his death, and, later, the Romans established a temple to Apollo and Diana here. Before that, the site was said to have been Trojan temple, established by Brutus himself and subsequently used by Lud, whose name is remembered in Ludgate Hill, the hill that is today crowned by the magnificence of Saint Paul’s Cathedral.
St. Paul’s Cathedral | History
Medieval Cathedral
The first St. Paul’s Cathedral on the site dates back to 604 AD. It was a modest wooden church built by King Ethelbert of Kent. Over the centuries, several versions of the cathedral were constructed, each larger and more elaborate than its predecessor.
The medieval St. Paul’s Cathedral suffered damage and destruction on multiple occasions. Notably, in 1087, it was struck by lightning and destroyed in a fire.
Rebuilding Efforts and the Great Fire of London
The cathedral was rebuilt and expanded in the Norman and Gothic styles over the centuries. By the seventeenth century, however, St. Paul’s Cathedral was in a state of disrepair. In 1666, the Great Fire of London devastated much of the city, including the old St. Paul’s Cathedral.
Design, Construction and Completion
Sir Christopher Wren, the renowned architect, was tasked with designing and overseeing the construction of a new cathedral. The construction of St. Paul’s Cathedral was a significant undertaking, which started in 1675 and was completed in 1710, with the final stone of the lantern placed in 1710-1711.
St. Paul’s Cathedral Today
St. Paul’s Cathedral is the mother church of the Diocese of London and serves as the seat of the Bishop of London. It is a place of worship, hosting royal weddings, jubilees, regular services, and important religious ceremonies.