Once you've visited the interior of the Saint Paul's Cathedralyou'll understand why it occupies such an important place in London's history.
Far from the glitz and glamour of London's West End, St. Paul's Cathedral and its surrounding streets give the impression of being trapped in time.
Today, we focus on the cathedral, its history and the importance of this place for all Londoners.
Saint Paul's Cathedral: article summary
Saint Paul's Cathedral: a fascinating history
St. Paul's Cathedral was built on the former site of a church dating back to 604 AD.
Legend has it that King Ethelbert of Kent built this wooden church as a tribute to the apostle Paul. However, the church suffered enormous damage in two separate fires, as well as during the Great Fire of London in 1666.
The cathedral as we see it today was built between 1675 and 1710 and designed by architect Sir Christopher Wren, influenced by Michelangelo's dome at St. Peter's Basilica in Rome.
Throughout its history, Saint Paul has been a key location for several important events in British history, such as :
- The wedding of Princess Diana and Prince Charles in 1981
- Funerals for Lord Nelson, Winston Churchill, the Duke of Wellington and Margaret Thatcher.
It's no surprise that many guidebooks consider this magnificent church to be one of the most beautiful places in the world. of any visit to London!
Highlights of Saint Paul's Cathedral
From chapels and monuments to religious art, statues and galleries, it seems that every nook and cranny of Saint-Paul offers a kind of historical delight that every visitor will appreciate.
On entering, visitors are greeted by eight scenes from the life of Saint Paul, and a view of the Nave.
In the northern part of the avenue stands the famous Duke of Wellington monument, along with a group of statues representing bravery, cowardice, truth and lies.
Climbing the Dome
No visit to St. Paul's Cathedral would be complete without climbing the 560 steps to the top of the Dome and the Whispering Gallery.
This massive circular enclosure offers visitors a magnificent view of the cathedral's interior from above, and it is said that even the slightest whisper can can be heard throughout the cathedral, thanks to the gallery's impressive acoustics.
If you have the stamina, you can also climb a further 117 steps to see the stone gallery and a further 166 steps for the golden gallery.
Saint Paul's Cathedral: discover the crypt
Another famous space inside St. Paul's Cathedral is the crypt, located on the first floor.
Here you will see the final resting places of many of London's most important historical figures, including the tombs of :
- From the Duke of Wellington
- By Christopher Wren
- From Admiral Nelson
Visitors can also visit the Oculus, a theater located in the cryptwhich offers visitors a 270-degree cinematic experience highlighting the long history of St. Paul's Cathedral.
During the film, viewers will learn everything from the Great Fire of London to the Blitz, as well as more about the cathedral's architectural design.
How do I get there?
There are a number of ways to get there. You can borrow :
- Visit metroSt. Paul's station is a two-minute walk from St. Paul's Cathedral.
- Visit trainCity Thameslink station is a three-minute walk away.
- Visit busYou can get to Saint Paul via buses 4, 11, 15, 23, 25, 26, 100 and 242.
How much do tickets cost?
Tickets at the door cost :
- 18 for adults
- 16 for students and seniors
- 8 for children aged six to 17
If you buy your ticket online in advance, you can save up to £2 per ticket and also benefit from queue-cutting entry.
Admission includes the cathedral floor and crypt, and the dome's three galleries.
Please note that the cathedral may close on certain dates for certain events, so it's a good idea to check the official website before you visit.
Saint Paul's Cathedral: what are the opening times?
Saint Paul's Cathedral opens :
- Monday to Saturday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Visits last around two hours.
Practical information
The admission ticket includes an audioguide available in several languages. The audio tour includes a touch-screen multimedia guide with headphones, so you can listen to the tour and stroll around the cathedral at your own pace.
Please note that photography inside the cathedral is prohibited. If you plan to climb the 257 steps to the Whispering Gallery, be sure to wear good shoes.
Visitors can attend religious services free of charge. There is also a cafeteria and a gift store inside the cathedral.
A visit to Saint Paul's Cathedral is almost a must on any trip to London. Discover another facet of this exceptional city.
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