St. Paul’s Cathedral is an Anglican place of worship on Ludgate Hill in the City of London, with a dome that has shaped the skyline for more than 300 years. Sir Christopher Wren designed the present building after the Great Fire of 1666; it was completed in 1711. Inside, look for the mosaics, artwork and elaborate stonework, then descend to the crypt, where Nelson, Wren and other notable figures are buried. If you climb the dome galleries, the Whispering Gallery brings unusual acoustics and the upper gallery looks out across London.
Wren’s cathedral after the Great Fire
The present St. Paul’s Cathedral took shape after the Great Fire of London destroyed its predecessor in 1666. Architect Sir Christopher Wren designed the new building in the English Baroque style. Construction ran from the late 17th century into the early 18th century, and the cathedral was completed in 1711.
A church dedicated to St. Paul has stood on this site since 604, though the original building and the current cathedral are separated by many centuries of rebuilding. The dome became a defining part of London’s skyline. St. Paul’s is still an active cathedral and the seat of the Bishop of London, so it serves as a place of worship as well as a visitor attraction.
Inside the cathedral
The interior brings together grand architecture and religious art. Look up at the dome and the mosaic-covered ceilings, and notice the marble flooring, high windows and carved stone details. The Quire is another area to explore, with intricate mosaics. Artworks and installations have appeared in the cathedral across different periods, including works by Henry Moore and Antony Gormley.
The building’s layout includes the cathedral floor, the dome galleries and a crypt extending beneath the structure. The crypt holds the tombs and memorials of notable figures, including Admiral Lord Nelson, the Duke of Wellington, Wren and the painter J. M. W. Turner. Memorials give the crypt a close link to the people and events associated with the cathedral.
The Whispering Gallery and views from the dome
The dome climb adds an architectural and acoustic element to a visit. The Whispering Gallery curves around the interior, where its shape lets a quiet voice carry along the wall. It is one of the dome’s galleries, reached by a long staircase; the climb continues to higher levels for outdoor views.
At the top, the Golden Gallery looks across central London, with the River Thames and landmarks such as Tate Modern, the Shard and Shakespeare’s Globe among the sights. The stairs make this part of the visit physically demanding, so allow time for the ascent and wear shoes suited to climbing. If you prefer to stay on the cathedral floor, there is still plenty to see in the interior and crypt.
A setting for national events
St. Paul’s has hosted major public and religious occasions. The wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer took place here in 1981. The cathedral has also held state funerals, including those of Winston Churchill and the Duke of Wellington, as well as memorial services and other national events.
During the Second World War, the cathedral survived the Blitz. A photograph taken during the bombing in 1940 shows its dome rising above smoke from surrounding fires. The image became closely associated with the cathedral’s place in London’s wartime history. Today, its continued use for worship means visitors should treat the building with the courtesy due to an active church.
Perguntas frequentes
How long should I allow for St. Paul’s Cathedral?
Allow 1 to 2 hours, especially if you plan to climb the dome galleries and visit the crypt.
Can you climb the dome at St. Paul’s Cathedral?
Yes. Visitors can climb to the dome galleries, including the Whispering Gallery and the Golden Gallery. The ascent involves many steps, so wear comfortable shoes.
Who is buried in the crypt at St. Paul’s Cathedral?
The crypt includes the tombs of Admiral Lord Nelson, the Duke of Wellington, Christopher Wren and J. M. W. Turner.
When is a good time to visit St. Paul’s Cathedral?
Earlier in the day is a practical choice if you want to avoid some of the crowds.
