The History of the Windows of London
London's windows aren't just an architectural feature however, they also provide an insight into the city's history. From the soaring towers to the 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 is one of the worst catastrophes Britain has ever witnessed. Starting with a spark from a baker's oven, the flame quickly grew out of control and left thousands homeless. The flame was so intense that it lasted for days, and its repercussions are visible to this day.
The first reaction of the majority of people was to get away from the flames as fast as possible. The people gathered up whatever they could and fled from the windows. The ones without windows walked the streets, or attempted to escape by boat along the River Thames. Many of these stories were recorded by the diarist Samuel Pepys.
Pepys was able record the destruction of the fire, and his eyewitness account is now a significant historical record. The city authorities began to tear down buildings in order to create a firebreak, but fires often swept over them.
The people who were trapped in their homes often fled to the rooftops, and others jumped into River Thames to escape the burning city. The fire eventually slowed down, and on September 6 the fire was put out.
It took close to 50 years to rebuild the cities that were destroyed and St Paul's Cathedral was not completed until 1711. The fire caused huge destruction: 13,200 homes and 87 churches 52 livery halls were destroyed. Many other buildings were also destroyed, including the Guildhall and courts and the city's entire infrastructure was ripped apart.
While most of the Great Fire was started by accident, some people blamed foreigners for the blaze. Many Londoners were distrustful of outsiders and the tension of a war that was ongoing with Holland resulted in an extra level of xenophobia that was added to the mix.
There are many unusual window designs in London, but none are as fascinating as the East Window of St Ethelburga at Bishopsgate. This window is a bit meta, since it's constructed from fragments of other stained glass windows within the church. It's easy to imagine the church once had a number of windows like this. However, a few of them were closed centuries ago.
The Gherkin
The Gherkin is one of the most distinctive landmarks on the London skyline. Located in the City of London, the building is home to offices and restaurants. It's a building that has distinctive shape, which is the reason it has its name. It is also a crucial part of the City's history. The building is also renowned for its use of natural light and air circulation. The windows' gaps let air circulate through the building, reducing the need for air conditioning. The building has also stimulated the interest in sustainable architecture.
The building was designed and inaugurated by Norman Foster in 2004. It is located at 30 St Mary Axe, and it is among the most well-known buildings in the city. It was designed to be a landmark structure, and it has the restaurant and bar. The restaurant offers stunning views of the City of London, and it is a favorite spot for tourists to visit.
It has been featured in a variety of films and TV shows. The Gherkin is also a popular tourist attraction, and has become a symbol of London's modern architecture.
When the construction of the building was underway there were many questions about the building's construction. Some people were concerned about the impact it would have on the flow of aircraft at Heathrow Airport. Others were concerned that it might block their view to St Paul's Cathedral. The original plan for the tower was redesigned down and the Gherkin opened in 2003.
The window shows the Tyburn scaffold and John Houghton Prior of Charterhouse and two other Carthusian Monks. The window also shows the execution of three more Carthusian Monks in 1535. The window was designed by Charles Blakeman in 1964, and it was donated to the church in 2000.
The Gherkin is available to the public at special events such as Open House London. At these special events visitors can view the interior of the building. 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
After the Great Fire of London the parliamentarians decided to build an additional house for themselves. They held a contest to select a style. Architectural firms were asked to submit ideas for a building that would be in either Gothic or Elizabethan style.
The resulting structure is like a fortress, with heavy ecclesiastical furniture and chilly colonnades. Critics claim that the building symbolizes Britain's "very male, power-hungry, aggressive democracy" and also that it has a distinctly masculine, patriarchal nature. Perhaps the most striking feature of the Houses of Parliament is its windows.
Inside the Houses of Parliament, there are more than 200 stained glass windows, some of them stunning. The windows reflect the different phases of the building's history starting from its beginnings as a palace until the present day structure.
Sash windows are a classic design element of London's architecture and have been used since the 17th century. Sash windows are made up of a frame that is movable panels called'sashes' that can be slid vertically to open and shut. They are a striking feature on buildings all over the city including grand Victorian houses as well as charming Georgian Townhouses.
There are 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. door specialists london of the most famous windows is located in St Nicholas Cole Abbey, Queen Victoria Street. It was created by Keith New and depicts churches around the world that contrast with each other with domes and igloos.
Sash windows aren't just beautiful but they also serve an important function. They allow for ventilation and the windows can be opened to let fresh air be able to enter. This is crucial in the hustle and bustle of the city. London's architectural legacy is also appreciated by the windows and their preservation is an integral part of the legacy.
The London Eye
Many call it the London Eye, this famous landmark is situated on South Bank of the River Thames and offers breathtaking views of the city. It has been a favored tourist attraction since it was opened for the Millennium in 2000, and is now the UK's most popular paid visitor attraction. It is one of the highest observation wheels in the world, and has been featured in popular culture.
Originally called the Millennium Wheel, it was designed by husband-and-wife team David Marks and Julia Barfield of Marks Barfield Architects. The wheel was developed and built over a period of seven years before being inaugurated by Tony Blair, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom on December 31st, 1999. It is the highest-altitude cantilevered observation wheel in Europe and has 32 capsules that represent the boroughs in London. The number 13 is not included since it is thought to be lucky.
In recent times, both tourists and locals have been drawn to the London Eye. It has stunning views and a variety of photographic opportunities. The most difficult thing for photographers is to avoid reflections on the walls of the Pod. Fortunately, there are lens hoods for both cameras and phones that can be put over the camera to avoid the issue.
The London Eye is open all year round Except for New Years Day and Christmas Eve. Visitors should make reservations in advance to guarantee availability. There are many ticket options available, including Fast Track and special packages like a Champagne Experience. People can reserve seats for events that are held in specific pods.
Despite the concerns of a few people following the Westminster attack there has been no evidence of security concerns at the London Eye. It is also safe to ride in adverse conditions, but the wheel could close when there are strong winds or severe weather conditions. Visitors should be sure to check the website for updates prior to departing.