St Paul's Cathedral
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.
Since the first service took place here in 1697, Wren's masterpiece has been where people and events of overwhelming importance to the country have been celebrated, mourned and commemorated. Throughout, St Paul’s has remained a busy, working church where millions have come to worship and find peace. It is a heritage site of international importance which attracts thousands of people each year, a symbol of the City and Nation it serves and, above all, a lasting monument to the glory of God.
Venue Type:
Heritage site, Sacred space
Collection details
Social History, Religion, Music, Fine Art, Design, Decorative and Applied Art, Architecture
Key artists and exhibits
- Christopher Wren
What is a Cathedral?
http://www.stpauls.co.uk/page.aspx?theLang=001lngdef&pointerID=20160oOINUt9xRnzhTKf3vtG7qCJKnnT
A booklet written to explain the symbolism and religious history of key features of a cathedral. From the layout of the building to the symbolism of church furniture, this photocopiable resource is an invaluable aid for the interpretation of St Paul's and other cathedrals and churches. It can be used to prepare your Key Stage 2 or 3 group for their visit, or to build on what they have learned.
How to obtain
22 page booklet available to download for free from the website.
Building the Building: The Science of St Paul's
http://www.stpauls.co.uk/page.aspx?theLang=001lngdef&pointerID=20160oOINUt9xRnzhTKf3vtG7qCJKnnT
A booklet which examines some of the things Sir Christopher Wren had to think about when he designed St Paul's Cathedral. In particular, it considers gravity and the importance of arches and foundations, and the materials selected for the building.
How to obtain
Visit the website to download this 12 page booklet.
Materials and Technology Trail
http://www.stpauls.co.uk/page.aspx?theLang=001lngdef&pointerID=20160oOINUt9xRnzhTKf3vtG7qCJKnnT
A self-guided trail for Key Stage 2 and 3 which examines some of the many natural and manmade materials found in St Paul's, including different kinds of rock. It also encourages pupils to think about some of the difficulties experienced by the maintenance team today.
How to obtain
Download this free booklet from the website.
St Paul's and the Great Fire of London
http://www.stpauls.co.uk/page.aspx?theLang=001lngdef&pointerID=20160oOINUt9xRnzhTKf3vtG7qCJKnnT
A self-guided trail which encourages pupils to look for clues to the Great Fire in the Crypt and on the Cathedral floor, and to answer questions about what they can see. Allow at least 45 minutes for the whole trail.
How to obtain
Visit the website to download the booklet for free.
St Paul's Cathedral
St Paul's Churchyard
London
City of London
EC4M 8AD
England
Website
General enquiries
chapter@stpaulscathedral.org.uk
Historical enquiries
library@stpaulscathedral.org.uk
Press enquiries
Telephone
Recorded information line
020 7236 4128
Chapter House Reception (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm)
020 7246 8350
Press Office (including filming/photography enquiries)
020 7246 8321
Library
020 7246 8345
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