One of London’s most stunning and visited landmarks is St. Paul’s Cathedral. With its stunning dome dominating the skyline, St. Paul’s is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of resilience, history, and architectural grandeur. A visit to this awe-inspiring cathedral offers tourists a chance to explore its rich history, intricate design, and breath-taking views of London.
Historical Background
St. Paul’s Cathedral has a history that dates back over 1,400 years, though the current structure is relatively “young” in comparison, having been completed in 1708. The cathedral that stands today is the fourth to occupy the site, with the previous ones having been destroyed, most famously by the Great Fire of London in 1666. After the fire, the renowned architect Sir Christopher Wren was commissioned to design the new cathedral, which became one of his most famous works and an enduring symbol of London’s recovery.
Wren’s design for St. Paul’s was ground-breaking for its time, blending classical, Gothic, and Renaissance elements. The cathedral’s iconic dome, which remains one of the largest in the world, is its most distinctive feature, and it became a model for many other domes around the globe. The dome itself is a double structure, with an inner dome visible from the inside and an outer dome that forms the cathedral’s external silhouette.
Exploring the Interior
Upon entering St. Paul’s Cathedral, visitors are immediately struck by the grandeur of the Nave. The vast, open space is filled with light filtering through stained glass windows, and the richly decorated ceilings and arches draw the eye upwards. The intricate mosaics, which were added in the late 19th century, depict biblical scenes and add to the cathedral’s sense of reverence and beauty.
The Dome
Climbing the dome is a must for any visitor. The ascent begins with a climb up 257 steps to the Whispering Gallery, which runs around the interior of the dome, 100 feet above the cathedral floor. The Whispering Gallery is famous for its acoustics; a whisper against the wall can be heard clearly on the opposite side of the gallery, 112 feet away. It’s a fun and fascinating experience to try out the gallery’s acoustic trick.
Continuing upwards, visitors reach the Stone Gallery, which offers the first panoramic views of London from the outside of the dome. For those who are up for the challenge, a final climb of 528 steps leads to the Golden Gallery at the very top of the dome. The Golden Gallery provides a stunning 360-degree view of London’s skyline, including landmarks such as the Shard, the River Thames, and the Tate Modern.
The Quire
The Quire is another beautiful and significant part of St. Paul’s Cathedral. This section is where the choir sits during services, and it is richly decorated with wooden carvings, intricate mosaics, and an impressive high altar. The quire’s organ, one of the largest in the UK, is a masterpiece of craftsmanship and sound.
The Crypt
Beneath the cathedral lies the Crypt, which is the final resting place for many notable figures in British history. Among those buried here are Sir Christopher Wren himself, who lies under a simple, unadorned stone, with an inscription in Latin that translates as, “If you seek his monument, look around you.” The crypt also houses the tombs of Admiral Lord Nelson and the Duke of Wellington, both of whom are celebrated heroes in British history. Walking through the crypt is a sobering experience, reminding visitors of the many layers of history that St. Paul’s encompasses.
The Chapel of All Souls
One of the most poignant parts of the cathedral is the Chapel of All Souls, which serves as a memorial to those who died in World War I and II. The chapel is a quiet space for reflection, with a Roll of Honour listing the names of those who lost their lives in the conflicts. The chapel’s peaceful atmosphere contrasts with the grandeur of the main cathedral, offering a place for visitors to pause and remember.
Architectural Features
St. Paul’s Cathedral is renowned for its stunning architectural details. The West Front, with its grand portico and twin towers, is one of the most recognizable aspects of the cathedral. The portico is adorned with statues of saints and apostles, and the pediment above depicts the Conversion of St. Paul.
The Dome itself is an architectural marvel. It is supported by eight massive piers, and the interior of the dome is decorated with a series of paintings by Sir James Thornhill, depicting scenes from the life of St. Paul. The outer dome is topped by a lantern and cross, which can be seen from miles around.
The cathedral’s Floor is made of various types of marble, laid out in intricate patterns, which contribute to the overall sense of harmony and beauty within the space. The Stained Glass Windows are also notable, particularly the Geometric Window in the South Transept, which dates back to 1710 and is one of the oldest in the cathedral.
Special Services and Events
St. Paul’s is still a working cathedral, and it hosts regular services, including Evensong, which is open to the public and features beautiful choral music. The cathedral also hosts many special events throughout the year, such as concerts, lectures, and commemorative services. Attending a service or event at St. Paul’s offers a unique way to experience the cathedral’s spiritual and cultural significance.
Visitor Information
- Location: St. Paul’s Cathedral is located at St. Paul’s Churchyard, London EC4M 8AD.
- Nearest Tube Station: The nearest Underground station is St. Paul’s (Central line), just a short walk from the cathedral.
- Opening Hours: The cathedral is generally open for sightseeing from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday to Saturday. It’s closed to tourists on Sundays for worship but is open for services.
- Admission: There is an admission fee for sightseeing, which includes access to the dome, crypt, and galleries. Tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance. Entry is free for those attending services.
- Guided Tours: St. Paul’s offers guided tours, including a Multimedia Guide available in multiple languages, which is included in the admission price. For a more in-depth experience, visitors can also join a Triforium Tour, which takes you behind the scenes to areas not usually open to the public.
Nearby Attractions
St. Paul’s Cathedral is centrally located, making it easy to explore other nearby attractions. The Millennium Bridge, a pedestrian bridge crossing the River Thames, is just a short walk away and offers stunning views of the cathedral from across the river. On the other side of the bridge, visitors can explore the Tate Modern, one of London’s most famous contemporary art galleries.
Just a short walk from the cathedral is the Museum of London, which offers a fascinating insight into the city’s history, from prehistoric times to the present day. Additionally, One New Change, a nearby shopping center, has a rooftop terrace that offers another fantastic viewpoint of St. Paul’s Cathedral and the surrounding area.
Final Thoughts
St. Paul’s Cathedral is more than just an architectural masterpiece; it’s a symbol of London’s resilience, a place of worship, and a repository of British history. Whether you’re exploring the intricate details of the interior, climbing the dome for panoramic views of London, or reflecting on the lives of those commemorated in the crypt, a visit to St. Paul’s offers a deep and enriching experience.
For tourists, St. Paul’s Cathedral is a must-see destination, offering a blend of history, architecture, spirituality, and stunning views. Its central location also makes it a convenient stop on any itinerary, and its enduring beauty ensures it remains one of London’s most beloved landmarks.
For more accurate and authentic information, it is advisable to check the official website of the place of interest.