Contemplation
St Paul's Cathedral, London
St Paul's is a famous London landmark and needs no introduction to most, In fact, I have climbed right to the top of the dome (no easy feat) for some spectacular views of London. Yet standing beneath the magnificent dome of St Paul's contemplating its beauty was almost like sensory overload. I could (probably did) take a hundred photographs and still there would be something new to see and contemplate. I couldn't help but feel so much awe - and somewhat insignificant. Most memorable though? Sitting on the steps of St Paul's, just watching people.
The cathedral is one of the most famous and most recognisable sights of London. Its dome, framed by the spires of Wren's City churches, dominated the skyline for 300 years. At 365 feet (111 m) high, it was the tallest building in London from 1710 to 1962. The dome is among the highest in the world. St Paul's is the second largest church building in area in the United Kingdom after Liverpool Cathedral.
St Paul's Cathedral occupies a significant place in the national identity It is the central subject of much promotional material, as well as of images of the dome surrounded by the smoke and fire of the Blitz.Services held at St Paul's have included the funerals of Lord Nelson, the Duke of Wellington and Sir Winston Churchill; Jubilee celebrations for Queen Victoria; peace services marking the end of the First and Second World Wars; the wedding of Charles, Prince of Wales and Lady Diana Spencer, the launch of the Festival of Britain and the thanksgiving services for the Golden Jubilee, the 80th Birthday and the Diamond Jubilee of Elizabeth II.
St Paul's Cathedral is a working church with hourly prayer and daily services.
