St Paul's Cathedral

Sir Christopher Wren's St. Paul's, built after the Fire of London in 1666, is London's most famous landmark, symbolizing the city's steadfastness and endurance during the Second World War. The medieval Cathedral, with a tower and spire soaring above the city, was one of Europe's wonders. St. Paul's Cathedral: 1,400 Years at the Heart of London tells of its fascinating history, illustrated with rare items from city and cathedral archives and glorious color photography.

Format: Hardback
Length: 144 pages
Publication date: 27 December 2020
Publisher: Scala Publishers Ltd

Sir Christopher Wren's St. Paul's, constructed following the devastating Fire of London in 1666, has emerged as the iconic symbol of the city, its dome adorned with the ball and cross representing London's unwavering resilience throughout centuries and its steadfastness during the Second World War. Upon its completion in the early eighteenth century, the cathedral stood as a breathtaking masterpiece, unparalleled in its architectural grandeur compared to any other cathedral or church in Britain. However, it is important to note that this site has a rich history of Christian worship, dating back over 1,400 years. The medieval Cathedral, with its towering tower and spire soaring above the city, was once considered one of the wonders of Europe. Beautifully illustrated with rare items from city and cathedral archives and stunning color photography of the present-day building and its precious treasures, St. Paul's Cathedral: 1,400 Years at the Heart of London unfolds the captivating history of St. Paul's.

The cathedral's construction began in 1675, following the design by Sir Christopher Wren, who was inspired by the Roman Pantheon. The building process faced numerous challenges, including the need to rebuild the city after the fire and the scarcity of materials during the Restoration period. However, Wren's vision and dedication saw the cathedral completed in 1708, becoming the tallest church in the world at the time.

St. Paul's Cathedral is renowned for its stunning architecture, including its dome, which is the largest in the United Kingdom and the third-largest in the world. The dome is adorned with a golden ball and cross, symbolizing the Christian Trinity and the victory of good over evil. The cathedral also features a series of beautiful stained-glass windows, each depicting a different biblical scene or figure.

Beyond its architectural significance, St. Paul's Cathedral has played a pivotal role in London's history and culture. It has served as a place of worship for royalty, including Queen Elizabeth II, and has hosted numerous important events, such as royal weddings and state funerals. The cathedral has also been a center of learning and research, with its library housing a vast collection of books and manuscripts.

In recent years, St. Paul's Cathedral has undergone extensive restoration and renovation projects, aimed at preserving its heritage and ensuring its continued use for generations to come. These projects have included the repair of the cathedral's roof, the restoration of its stained-glass windows, and the installation of new technology to improve visitor experiences.

As a testament to its enduring legacy, St. Paul's Cathedral has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its cultural and historical significance. It continues to attract millions of visitors each year, who come to marvel at its beauty, learn about its history, and participate in its worship and other activities.

In conclusion, Sir Christopher Wren's St. Paul's Cathedral is a magnificent masterpiece that has stood as a symbol of London's resilience and cultural heritage for centuries. Its stunning architecture, rich history, and ongoing restoration projects make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, or religion. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, St. Paul's Cathedral is sure to leave a lasting impression on your heart and mind.

Weight: 1110g
Dimension: 288 x 251 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781857598025