Not Just the Tudors The Rise of St Paul's Cathedral
Nov 10, 2025
Join architectural historian Dr. Elizabeth Deans, a specialist in Sir Christopher Wren, as she discusses the fascinating birth of St Paul’s Cathedral from the ashes of the Great Fire of London. Delve into Wren’s journey from scientist to state architect and his ambitious designs that met both admiration and resistance. Discover the technical marvel of the dome and evolving architectural influences, alongside Wren's hands-on approach in his later years. This captivating story highlights how beauty rose from destruction, cementing Wren's legacy in British architecture.
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Destruction Enabled A Bold Rebuild
- The Great Fire of 1666 destroyed old St Paul's and created a chance to reimagine the city and cathedral.
- Christopher Wren seized that moment to propose a modern, monumental design blending faith, innovation and state ambition.
Wren's Path From Science To Architecture
- Christopher Wren transitioned from scientist to architect through academic and clerical connections.
- His early architectural learning came from books and commissions at Oxford and Cambridge.
Paris Taught Building Administration
- Wren's 1665 Paris visit taught him not just buildings but state-run building administration.
- Seeing the Louvre's construction showed him organized teams, logistics and on-site management.
