St PaulâÂÂs Cathedral, whose dome dominates LondonâÂÂs skyline, is EnglandâÂÂs architectural masterpiece and place of national celebration. The cathedral was designed by the famed architect Sir Christopher Wren, after the Great Fire of London in 1666 destroyed its predecessor. The cathedral took 35 years to build from 1675 â 1710, spanning the lives of five monarchs and was the first cathedral to have been built and completed in its architectâÂÂs lifetime.
St PaulâÂÂs Cathedral is where people and events of overwhelming national significance have been celebrated, mourned or commemorated. From state funerals for British heroes such as Sir Winston Churchill, to the Royal Wedding of Prince Charles to Lady Diana Spencer, and National Services of Thanksgiving to celebrate the Silver, Golden and Diamond JubileeâÂÂs of Her Majesty the Queen.
IPod touch multimedia guides in 11 languages are included for sightseers offering up to 90 minutes of audio commentary, videos and imagery for a self guided tour. Tours led by cathedral guides can also be booked in advance for groups, at a small additional per personÃÂ charge.
Explore the cathedral floor then visit the Whispering Gallery to test the unique acoustics. Climb further to the Stone and Golden Galleries, which afford breathtaking panoramic views across the city.
Descend to the crypt which houses tombs and memorials to famous Britons such as Admiral Lord Nelson, The Duke of Wellington and Wren himself. Visitors can enjoy the award winning video exhibition located here; âÂÂOculus: an eye into St PaulâÂÂsâ is a 270ð HD film experience that brings the 1400 years of the cathedralâÂÂs history to life. The films offer visitors a unique insight into the history of the site and St PaulâÂÂs as a vibrant working church.
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