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Contents
St Paul’s Cathedral history and timeline
St Paul’s Cathedral history explained
1666: The Great Fire of London
The Great Fire of London in 1666 devastated the third St Paul's Cathedral, prompting its demolition. Sir Christopher Wren was then tasked with designing and overseeing the construction of the current St Paul's Cathedral.
1675-1710: Construction of the new St Paul's Cathedral
Christopher Wren orchestrated the design and construction of the cathedral in the English Baroque style, featuring high ceilings, decorative moldings and carvings, stained glass windows, and mosaics and paintings depicting the life of St. Paul on the ceilings.
1711: The construction of the dome
The completed St Paul’s dome soared to nearly 365 feet, ranking among the world's tallest. The dome's towering presence enhances the cathedral's grandeur and pioneering creativity, establishing the cathedral as a monumental fixture in London's skyline.
1940s: During and post-World Wars
Despite heavy bombing during the Blitz, the cathedral survived, and the iconic photograph of it standing amidst the smoke and flames became a powerful image. The cathedral held services marking the end of the World Wars as a national site for remembrance of wartime history.
1960s: Funerals of Churchill and Thatcher
St Paul's Cathedral served as the venue for the funerals of Winston Churchill and Margaret Thatcher. These ceremonies emphasized the cathedral's status as a site of national importance for commemorating notable individuals and hosting state occasions.
1981: Royal wedding at St Paul's Cathedral
In 1981, St Paul's Cathedral hosted Prince Charles and Lady Diana's royal wedding, a globally celebrated event known for its grandeur and romance. This ceremony symbolized hope and joy, highlighting the cathedral's role as a venue for prestigious occasions.
2002: Funeral of the Queen Mother
In 2002, St Paul's Cathedral held the funeral service of Queen Elizabeth - The Queen Mother. Dignitaries and mourners from across the globe gathered to pay homage to the revered royal figure at the nationally significant cathedral.
2012: Diamond Jubliee at the Cathedral
2012 witnessed St Paul's Cathedral hosting Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee. Attended by the royal family and Commonwealth representatives, the service honored the Queen's 60 years of service, symbolizing the relationship between the monarchy and the Church of England.
Present: St Paul’s Cathedral today
St Paul's is one of the world's best-known cathedrals and one of the most recognizable sights in London. It is also the seat of the Bishop of London and the mother church in the Diocese of London. St Paul's Cathedral is a working church that offers hourly prayer and daily services.
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Frequently Asked Questions about the history of St Paul’s Cathedral London
When was the first St Paul’s Cathedral constructed?
The first St Paul’s Cathedral was constructed in 604 by Saint Mellitus and Saint Augustine. The current St Paul’s Cathedral is the fourth structure built on the same site after previous ones fell to fire, war, or natural disasters.
Are there historical artifacts or exhibits on display?
Yes, St Paul’s Cathedral houses a fascinating collection of historical artifacts. You can explore the crypt, which contains tombs and memorials of famous Britons, including Sir Christopher Wren himself and Florence Nightingale. The cathedral’s dome galleries also feature exhibits on its construction and significance.
Can I visit St Paul’s Cathedral for free?
Entry to St Paul’s Cathedral is free for people visiting the services. However, you need to book tickets to explore the rest of the cathedral.
Is there a guided tour available at St Paul’s Cathedral?
Absolutely! St Paul’s Cathedral offers guided history tours that delve into the details of its past, architecture, and the significant events it has hosted. These tours provide an in-depth look at how the cathedral has shaped and been shaped by the history of London and are included with your entry tickets.
How has the interior of the cathedral changed over time?
While much of the cathedral’s interior remains true to Wren’s original design, there have been significant additions, such as the American Memorial Chapel, dedicated to the American servicemen and women who died in World War II. Regular restoration efforts are also carried out to maintain its architectural beauty.
Are there any lesser-known historical events connected to St Paul’s Cathedral?
One lesser-known fact is that St Paul’s was the site of the first-ever Protestant sermon preached in London after the Reformation. It has also been a venue for public addresses, including those by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and other significant figures in history.
