Old St. Paul's Cathedral
History
Old St. Paul's Cathedral, a monumental edifice of medieval London, was a significant religious and architectural landmark that stood from its initial construction in the 12th century until its destruction in the Great Fire of London in 1666. The cathedral was originally built on the site of a Roman temple dedicated to the goddess Diana, reflecting the long-standing religious significance of the location. The first church on the site was established in 604 AD by Mellitus, the first Bishop of London, under the auspices of King Æthelberht of Kent.
The cathedral underwent several reconstructions and expansions over the centuries. The most notable reconstruction began in 1087 under the direction of Bishop Maurice, following a devastating fire. This Norman cathedral was built in the Romanesque style, characterized by its massive proportions, thick walls, and rounded arches. The construction of the cathedral was a lengthy process, continuing into the 13th century, with the addition of a Gothic choir and transepts, reflecting the evolving architectural styles of the period.
Architecture
Old St. Paul's Cathedral was an architectural marvel of its time, combining elements of Romanesque and Gothic styles. The cathedral's nave was one of the longest in Europe, measuring approximately 585 feet, and was supported by a series of massive piers and arches. The choir, rebuilt in the early 13th century, was designed in the Early English Gothic style, featuring pointed arches and ribbed vaults.
The cathedral's most striking feature was its central spire, which rose to a height of approximately 489 feet, making it one of the tallest structures in medieval Europe. This spire, completed in the 14th century, was a testament to the engineering prowess of the period, although it was destroyed by lightning in 1561 and never fully rebuilt.
The interior of Old St. Paul's was equally impressive, with a series of chapels, altars, and shrines dedicated to various saints. The Lady Chapel, located at the eastern end of the cathedral, was a particularly important site for Marian devotion. The cathedral also housed numerous tombs and monuments, including those of notable figures such as John of Gaunt and Geoffrey Chaucer.
Religious Significance
Old St. Paul's Cathedral was not only a center of worship but also a focal point for religious and political life in medieval England. It served as the episcopal seat of the Bishop of London and was the site of numerous important events, including royal coronations, state funerals, and ecclesiastical synods.
The cathedral was also a center of learning and scholarship, housing a library and a school that contributed to the intellectual life of the city. The Paul's Cross, an open-air pulpit located in the cathedral's churchyard, was a significant venue for public preaching and debate, attracting notable preachers and audiences from across the country.
Decline and Destruction
By the 16th century, Old St. Paul's Cathedral had begun to show signs of decline. The Reformation, initiated by Henry VIII, led to the dissolution of the monasteries and a significant reduction in the cathedral's income and influence. Many of the cathedral's treasures and relics were destroyed or removed, and the building itself fell into disrepair.
Efforts to restore the cathedral were undertaken in the early 17th century, with architect Inigo Jones commissioned to redesign the west front in a classical style. However, these efforts were interrupted by the outbreak of the English Civil War, during which the cathedral was used as a stable and barracks by Parliamentary forces.
The final blow came in 1666, when the Great Fire of London swept through the city, destroying Old St. Paul's Cathedral along with much of medieval London. The cathedral's ruins were eventually cleared to make way for the construction of the present St. Paul's Cathedral, designed by Sir Christopher Wren.
Legacy
Despite its destruction, Old St. Paul's Cathedral remains an important part of London's architectural and cultural heritage. Its influence can be seen in the design of the current St. Paul's Cathedral, which incorporates elements of the medieval structure in its layout and decoration.
The memory of Old St. Paul's is also preserved in numerous literary and historical works, including John Stow's "Survey of London" and William Dugdale's "History of St. Paul's Cathedral in London." These works provide valuable insights into the cathedral's history, architecture, and significance, ensuring that its legacy continues to be studied and appreciated by scholars and the public alike.