Shirley Yanez / 14 May 2025 / Categories: City, What to see, What to do, Useful Guides

St Paul's cathedral Historic London Landmark

St Paul's Cathedral, formally the Cathedral Church of St Paul the Apostle

St Paul's Cathedral is an iconic Anglican cathedral located in the heart of London, serving as the spiritual centre for the Diocese of London and the Church of England. The current building dates back to the 17th century and was designed by the legendary architect Sir Christopher Wren following the Great Fire of London in 1666. It stands as a monumental example of English Baroque architecture, with its unmistakable dome being one of the city's most recognizable landmarks.

The cathedral is dedicated to St. Paul the Apostle, who is considered to be the founder of the Christian church in England. The original church on this site was built in the 7th century, with the present structure being the fifth to occupy the location. Throughout its history, it has played a significant role in the religious and ceremonial life of the nation, hosting numerous state funerals, royal weddings, and other important events.

Some key features of St Paul's Cathedral include:

1. The Dome: The second-largest in the world after St. Peter's Basilica in Rome, St. Paul's dome reaches a height of 365 feet and offers stunning 360-degree views of the city from the top.

2. The Whispering Gallery: An intriguing acoustic phenomenon allows whispers to be heard across the 112-foot diameter space, located 100 feet above the cathedral floor.

3. The Crypt: This is the final resting place of many notable figures in British history, including Sir Christopher Wren himself, as well as the Duke of Wellington and Admiral Nelson.

4. The Chapels: There are numerous chapels within the cathedral, each with its own unique history and design, including the American Chapel, which commemorates the American dead of both world wars.

5. The Nave: The central space of the cathedral, the nave is lined with monumental sculptures and is where many significant services and ceremonies take place.

6. The Quire: Home to the cathedral choir, the quire contains exquisite wood carvings and is where the daily services of choral evensong are held.

7. The Treasury: Houses a collection of ecclesiastical treasures and artefacts that reflect the rich history of the cathedral.

8. The Stone and Golden Galleries: These offer further panoramic views of London and provide insight into the cathedral's history and construction.

St. Paul's Cathedral is not only an active place of worship but also a significant cultural and historical site, open to the public for visits, tours, and services. It is an essential part of the city's skyline and a must-see for tourists and residents alike. St Pauls is also situated in a bustling area of the City surrounded by restaurants and great shopping, including The Royal exchange filled with high-end designer luxury brands. Well worth a visit.