The History of the Windows of London
London's windows aren't just a feature of its architecture, but they also provide an insight into the city's history. From soaring skyscrapers to quaint Georgian townhouses the windows of London have a story to tell.
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The Great Fire of London
The Great Fire of London was one of the most devastating natural disasters that Britain has ever witnessed. Starting with a spark emanating from a baker's stove, the fire quickly spread beyond control, and left thousands homeless. The flame was so intense that it lasted for several days, and its effects can be seen today.
The initial reaction of most people was to escape from the flames as fast as they could. They took whatever possessions they could carry and ran out of the windows of their homes. People without windows ran through the streets, or attempted to escape by boat down the River Thames. Samuel Pepys, a diarist who recorded a lot of these stories.
Pepys"eyewitness account" of the fire is a significant historical record. The city authorities began to demolish buildings to create a firebreak, but the flames often overtook them.
Many people trapped in their homes escaped to the roofs. Others jumped into the River Thames in order to escape the burning city. Eventually the conflagration slowed down and on the 6th of September the fire was brought under control.
St Paul's Cathedral wasn't completed until 1711, almost 50 years after the fire. The fire caused immense damage: 13,200 homes, 87 churches, and 52 livery halls were all destroyed. Many other buildings were also destroyed, including the Guildhall and courts and the entire city infrastructure was ripped apart.
Some blamed foreigners, despite the fact that the Great Fire was mostly started by accident. Londoners were suspicious of foreigners and the tensions of the ongoing war with Holland added a layer of xenophobia.
There are a myriad of unusual window designs in London however none are as captivating as the East Window of St Ethelburga at Bishopsgate. The window is a bit meta in that it's constructed of pieces from other stained glass windows inside the church. It's not difficult to imagine that the church once full of windows like this, but some were blocked centuries ago.
The Gherkin
The Gherkin is among the most distinctive features on the London skyline. It is located in the City of London, the building houses restaurants and offices. It is a structure with an unusual design, which is what gives it its name. It is also an important part of City's history. The building is also renowned for its use and ventilation of natural light. The windows' gaps allow air to circulate through the building, which reduces the necessity for air conditioning. The building also has sparked the interest in sustainable architecture.
The building was designed and inaugurated by Norman Foster in 2004. It is located in 30 St Mary Axe and is one of the most well-known buildings in the city. It was designed to be a landmark, and it houses an eatery and bar. The restaurant has stunning views of London's City. It is a popular spot for tourists.
It is a popular option for wedding receptions, and it has also been featured in many movies and television shows. The Gherkin is also an increasingly popular tourist destination and a symbol for London's modern architecture.
When the construction began on the building, there were many concerns. Many were concerned about the impact it would have on air traffic at Heathrow Airport. Others were worried that it would block their view to St Paul's Cathedral. The original plan for the tower was scaled back and the Gherkin was opened in 2003.
The window shows the Tyburn scaffold and John Houghton Prior of Charterhouse and two other Carthusian Monks. It also shows the execution of three other Carthusian monks in 1535. The window was designed by Charles Blakeman and donated to the church in 1999.
The Gherkin is accessible to the public for special events, such as Open House London. During these events, visitors can visit the Gherkin's interior and tour the inside. The Gherkin is also a part various walking tours, such as the City of London Tour and the Skyscrapers and Sculpture Walk.
The Houses of Parliament
In the aftermath of the Great Fire of London, parliamentarians decided to construct an additional home for themselves. They held a contest to select a design. The architects were asked to submit ideas for a building that would be in either Gothic or Elizabethan style.
The resultant building is an evocative fortress with heavy ecclesiastical furniture and chilly colonnades. Some critics claim that the building is a symbol for Britain's "very masculine, power-hoarding, aggressive democracy" and has an overwhelmingly masculine, patriarchal character. The Houses of Parliament's windows are perhaps its most striking element.
Inside the Houses of Parliament there are more than 200 stained glass windows, many of them stunning. The windows show the history of the building, from its humble beginnings as a palace, all the way to its present-day form.
Sash windows are a traditional feature of London's architecture and have been used since the 17th century. Sash windows are made up of a frame with movable panels called'sashes' that can be slid vertically to shut and open. They are a striking feature of buildings across the city, ranging from grand Victorian houses to quaint Georgian townhouses.
You can find numerous of these windows in the windows of shops and restaurants. The window in St Mary Le Bow, Cheapside, depicts the rebuilding of 52 churches by Christopher Wren following the Great Fire of London. One of the most notable windows is located in St Nicholas Cole Abbey, Queen Victoria Street. Keith New designed it and depicts churches from all over the world in contrast, including igloos and domes.
In addition to their aesthetic appeal Sash windows also play an important functional role to play. They allow for ventilation and the sashes can be opened to allow fresh air to be able to enter. This is crucial in the hustle and bustle of the city. The architectural heritage of London is appreciated by the windows and their preservation forms an integral part of the legacy.
The London Eye
Known to many as the London Eye, this famous landmark is situated on South Bank of the River Thames, and offers stunning panoramic views of the city. It has been a well-known tourist attraction since its opening in the Millennium in 2000, and is now the UK's most popular paid visitor attraction. It is also one of the world's highest observation wheels, and has even made appearances in popular media.
The original name was the Millennium Wheel, it was created by husband and wife team David Marks and Julia Barfield of Marks Barfield Architects. The wheel was designed and built over a period of seven years before being opened by Tony Blair, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom on December 31st 1999. The wheel is the highest cantilevered wheel in Europe and contains 32 capsules that represent the London boroughs. Number 13 is not included since it is thought to be unlucky.
In recent times the London Eye has become a major tourist attraction for both tourists and locals. Apart from the stunning views, it also offers numerous photography opportunities. The biggest challenge for photographers is avoiding reflections that reflect off the glass walls of the pod. There are lens hoods for both phones and cameras that can be used to get rid of this issue.
The London Eye is open all year round Except for New Years Day and Christmas Eve. To ensure availability, visitors should make reservations in advance. There are many ticket options such as Fast Track and special packages like a Champagne Experience. People can reserve seats for special events in specific pods.
Despite glass repair london of some people after the Westminster attack, there have been no reports of security concerns at the London Eye. It is also safe to ride during bad weather, although the wheel could shut down when there are strong winds or severe weather conditions. Visitors should keep an eye out for updates on the website before their trip.