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Old St Paul’s Cathedral | St Paul’s in the Middle Ages
Built atop Ludgate Hill centuries ago, was the Old St. Paul’s Cathedral. It was the fourth church constructed on this site until the Great Fire of London in 1666 destroyed most of it. We’ve put together a detailed guide to understanding the history of the Old St. Paul’s Cathedral, its significance and what led to the construction of the current cathedral. Keep reading to learn more about this treasured monument!
About Old St Paul’s Cathedral
The Old St. Paul’s Cathedral was built between 1087 and 1314 as a dedication to Paul the Apostle. It is believed that this was the fourth church built at Ludgate Hill on the same site, the construction of which took over 200 years to complete, briefly delayed by a fire in 1135. During the mid-1300s, work was finally completed, and the Cathedral was the most stunning building of its time. Unfortunately, the Great Fire of London destroyed most of the church in 1666, until which time it was the tallest church in Great Britain and the third largest one in all of Europe. It was destroyed so severely that almost nothing of the old church remains today.
About St Paul's CathedralHistory of Old St. Paul Cathedral explained
604 AD: Construction of the first St. Paul's Cathedral
In 604 AD, King Erkenwald commissioned the inaugural St. Paul's Cathedral, a modest wooden edifice tragically consumed by fire. Despite its humble origins, this marked the genesis of a storied lineage for the cathedral, witnessing successive iterations across centuries, shaping London's Christian narrative profoundly.
962: Construction of the second church
In 962, a second incarnation of St. Paul's Cathedral arose, yet succumbed to destruction by Viking incursions, reflecting the tumultuous era of early medieval England. Such trials underscored the resilience of communities and builders, persistently rebuilding despite recurrent challenges, affirming the enduring legacy of St. Paul's Cathedral.
1087: Construction of the third church
In 1087, Bishop Maurice erected the third St. Paul's Cathedral, a structure that would epitomize faith and architectural prowess for almost six centuries. As an emblem of grandeur and spiritual importance, it became an iconic fixture in London's skyline and a focal point for religious and civic affairs.
1135: Delay in the construction
In 1135, a pivotal incident unfolded during the construction of the third St. Paul's Cathedral when a fire erupted, temporarily halting progress. This event underscored the formidable obstacles encountered by medieval craftsmen and the inherent hazards of monumental construction projects. Despite the setback, their tenacity prevailed, culminating in the cathedral's eventual completion.
1240: Consecration of the third cathedral
In 1240, following years of construction, the third St. Paul's Cathedral was formally sanctified, representing a pivotal moment in its evolution. This magnificent Gothic edifice swiftly emerged as a hub for civic engagement and commerce in London, owing to its strategic placement and imposing design. Its consecration further affirmed its status as a vital religious and cultural institution.
1561: Destruction of the church spires
In 1561, tragedy befell the third St. Paul's Cathedral when a lightning strike obliterated its famed spire, resulting in a notable absence in its architectural profile. Concurrently, economic challenges during a trade depression thwarted efforts to reconstruct the spire, leaving the cathedral bereft of this iconic feature for over a century.
1630s: Addition of the west front
During the 1630s, distinguished architect Inigo Jones initiated the expansion of St. Paul's Cathedral with a west front, elevating its grandeur. Regrettably, the onset of the English Civil War abruptly ceased subsequent repair and renovation endeavors. The conflict disrupted restoration efforts, leaving the cathedral partially completed, highlighting the adversities of this turbulent era in English history.
1666: The Great Fire of London
Following the Great Fire of London in 1666, extensive damage befell the third St. Paul's Cathedral, prompting the need for reconstruction. This pivotal moment initiated the commissioning of the present-day St. Paul's Cathedral. Under the direction of Sir Christopher Wren, the new cathedral emerged as a pinnacle of English Baroque architecture.
Construction of Old St. Paul’s Cathedral
Construction of the Old St. Paul's Cathedral commenced in 1087, lasting until 1314. It was dedicated to Paul the Apostle and became the fourth church erected on Ludgate Hill's site. Spanning over two centuries, interrupted briefly by a fire in 1135, the cathedral, characterized by Romanesque architecture, was finalized in the mid-1300s. Tragically, the Great Fire of London in 1666 nearly obliterated the cathedral, eradicating much of its historical significance.
St Paul's Cathedral HistoryThe interiors of Old St. Paul’s Cathedral
After its completion in the 1300s, Old St. Paul’s Cathedral was by far one of the most elegant churches not just in the country but probably in the whole of Europe. One of its most notable features was the long nave with a Norman triforium and a charming vaulted ceiling. Being an iconic part of the cathedral, it eventually earned the name ‘Paul’s Walk’.
Even the stained glass windows of the church were considered some of the best ones in the country. Legendary poet Geoffrey Chaucer even mentions the cathedral’s windows in his poem ‘The Miller’s Tale’, where he writes:
His rode was red, his eyen grey as goose,
With Paule’s windows carven on his shoes
In hosen red he went full fetisly.
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St. Paul’s Cathedral today
The new St. Paul’s Cathedral is a marvelous structure dominating the skyline of London. It is the second-largest church in the city, with the tallest dome in the world. St. Paul’s Cathedral is one of the most important churches in the country, having held services marking the end of the First and Second World Wars, the funerals of Winston Churchill and Margaret Thatcher, and even the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana. Aside from this, public services are held at the church. The remarkable structure has a rich history and is well worth a visit.
Plan Your VisitFrequently Asked Questions about Old St Paul's Cathedral
What happened to Old St Paul's Cathedral?
The restoration works that began after the destruction of the church spires were halted because of the English Civil War, after which the Great Fire burned the cathedral down almost completely. After this, Christopher Wren was given the job of restoring the cathedral.
Can I see the Old St Paul's Cathedral?
The building that stands in the place of Old St Paul's Cathedral no longer has the same design. However, a model of it is available at the Museum of London. You can still visit the current St. Paul's Cathedral building and marvel at its beautiful architecture while you imagine the magnificence of the spire that no longer exists.
Is there anything left from the Old St Paul's Cathedral in the current building?
Sir Christopher Wren understood that many Londoners had deep sentiments towards the Old St Paul's Cathedral building. He tried to restore as much of the old cathedral as he could. The spire however was in an irreparable state, because of which he decided to replace it with a dome instead.
What architectural style was Old St. Paul's Cathedral?
Old St. Paul's Cathedral was primarily built in Romanesque architecture, with later additions in Gothic style.
What was the size of Old St. Paul's Cathedral?
Old St. Paul's Cathedral was one of the largest cathedrals in Europe, with a length of approximately 585 feet and a width of 100 feet.
What events or activities took place at Old St. Paul's Cathedral?
Aside from religious services, Old St. Paul's Cathedral hosted markets, fairs, and even theatrical performances.
What was the fate of Old St. Paul's Cathedral during the English Reformation?
Old St. Paul's Cathedral was stripped of its Catholic decorations and artifacts during the English Reformation.
Was Old St. Paul's Cathedral rebuilt after the Great Fire?
No, after the Great Fire, it was decided to construct a new cathedral, which became the current St. Paul's Cathedral.
