St. Paul’s Cathedral
Visit the Ancient St. Paul’s Cathedral
No one that lives in or visits London can forget about religion. Like an ancient sentinel over the bustling metropolis stands St. Paul’s Cathedral. The cathedral was first built in 604AD and this is its 4th incarnation.
Sir Christopher Wren designed the building that stands majestically today and it was built between the years of 1675 and 1710. The former cathedral was destroyed by the Great Fire of London. Five of Britain’s monarchs oversaw construction so that the leading church of London would be as magnificent and beautiful as the palaces from which they ruled.
People and Events of the Past at St. Paul’s Cathedral
Some of Great Britain’s most important events have taken place in St. Paul’s Cathedral. Funerals, weddings and commemorations have been held here. The Duke of Wellington, Lord Nelson and Sir Winston Churchill had their funerals held here. Princess Diana and Prince Charles were married here and services commemorating the peace at the end of World War I & II were celebrated at the cathedral.
The celebration for Queen Victoria’s Jubilee as well as the Golden Jubilee of Her Majesty the Queen took place in the hallowed space of St. Paul’s Cathedral. Also her 80th birthday was commemorated here as well as the Queen Mother’s 80th and 100th birthdays. St. Paul’s Cathedral has changed to reflect different eras over time.
The crypt holds fragments of stone, effigies and remnants of its medieval origins. Mendelssohn once played the 1695 organ that is still in use and the Whispering Gallery is still a delight to children. The wrought iron gates placed in 1700 and created by Jean Tijou are still separating the ambulatory from the quire and magnificent monuments and art celebrate the history of a nation.
St Paul’s Cathedral Today
As long as a cathedral stood it has been a church that is busy ministering to the faithful. It is a monument that glorifies the God of the Episcopal Church and draws worshippers and tourists in the thousands each year.
The gorgeous Dome dominates the skyline of London. The interior is filled with stone carvings, mosaics that glitter and vantage points that take one’s breath away. Explore the Crypt and Library. Hear the bells toll throughout the city. Visit the American Memorial Chapel, the Cathedral School and St. Paul’s Institute.
Those that plan to visit St. Paul’s Cathedral can access information about services, tours, and special events by visiting their website at http://www.stpauls.co.uk. Ticket prices news and information about commercial facilities can all be found on the website pages. A visit to St. Paul’s Cathedral is a must for visitors to the city of London. Come and experience history in a tranquil setting, set amidst historic splendor that won’t soon be forgotten by any that have the opportunity to visit the cathedral that is such an integral part of the city.
No matter how many times you have visited St. Paul’s Cathedral, it will continue to have the power to awe and inspire those that gaze upon its majestic façade and step back in time as they enter through her doors.
