|
A Cathedral dedicated to St Paul has overlooked the City of London since 604AD,
a constant reminder to this great commercial centre of the importance of the
spiritual side of life.
The current Cathedral ? the fourth to occupy this site ? was designed by the
court architect Sir Christopher Wren and built between 1675 and 1710 after its
predecessor was destroyed in the Great Fire of London. Its architectural and
artistic importance reflect the determination of the five monarchs who oversaw
its building that London?s leading church should be as beautiful and imposing
as their private palaces.
As the Cathedral of the capital city, St Paul?s is the spiritual focus for
the Nation. This is where people and events of overwhelming importance to the
country have been celebrated, mourned and commemorated since the first Service
took place in 1697. |