10 Downing Street

 10 Downing Street is an iconic building located in the City of Westminster, London, UK. It has served as the official residence and office of the British Prime Minister since the early 18th century.

Main Entrance to 10 Downing Street 

It was built in the late 17th century, around 1682, by Sir George Downing. He was a diplomat and politician who served as a member of Parliament and later became a baronet. He constructed the building as a townhouse.

Sir George Downing (1623-1684)

Originally, the purpose of the building was residential. It was designed as a grand residence with multiple floors, a courtyard, and gardens. Sir Downing intended it for wealthy individuals, including high-ranking government officials.

However, in the 1730's, King George II offered 10 Downing Street to Sir Robert Walpole, the first Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. He accepted the King's offer, and since then, the building has been associated with the office of the Prime Minister. 

Sir Robert Walpole (1676-1745)

King George II (1683-1760)

Today, it remains the building that houses the Prime Minister's Office and is a crucial center for political decision-making and governance. It serves as a hub for meetings, policy discussions, and coordination among government officials and advisors. 

 Stonehenge

Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument located on Salisbury Plain in Wiltshire, England. It consists of a ring of standing stones, each weighing several tons, set within earthworks. Stonehenge was built in several stages, with the earliest construction dating back to around 3100 BCE. The monumet went through various transformations over the centuries, with the most recognazible stone circle being completed around 2500 BCE. 

Stonehenge

The exact purpose and meaning of Stonehenge remain a subject of debate among scholars and archaeologists. However, it is generally believed to have served as a ceremonial and religious site. Its construction required significant effort and coordonation, indicating that it was a place of great importance to the people of that time. The alignment of the stones suggests an association with celestial events, such as solstices and equinoxes, which likely played a role in the religious and astronomical practices of the ancient builders.

Overall, Stonehenge's importance and relevance today are multifaced. From an archaeological standpoint, it provides valuable insights into the engineering capabilities and cultural practices of Neolithic and Bronze Age societies. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and attracts millions of visitors each year, serving as a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of British history and heritage. 

Stonehenge continues to inspire awe and curiosity, fueling ongoing research and study. Modern technology, such as ground-penetrating radar and laser scanning, has enabled archaeologists to uncover new details about the monument's construction and surrounding landscape. These investigations have revealed additional structures and burial sites in the vicinity, further enriching our understanding of the site. 

In the present day, Stonehenge doesn't function as an active religious site. However, it holds spiritual significance for some individuals and various neo-pagan and druidic groups. These groups ocasionally gather at Stonehenge during solstices and equinoxes to observe ceremonies and celebrate the connection to nature and ancient traditions. It is important to note that these contemporary practices differ from the original religious and cultural context in which Stonehenge was created. 

Modern druids practising rituals at Stonehenge

 Big Ben

Big Ben is one the most iconic landmarks in London, England. Paradoxically, only the bell is called like this, not the entire clock tower.

Big Ben

The construction of the tower, including Big Ben, began in 1834 and completed in 1859. The tower was designed by architects Charles Barry and Augustus Pugin, the former being responsible for the overall design, while the latter contributed to the Gothic Revival style and the intricate detailing of the tower. 

The tower was constructed as part of the rebuilding of the Palace of Westminster after a devastating fire in 1834. The new design aimed to create a grand and imposing structure that would reflect the power and prestige of the British Empire. The tower and the clock were intended to be a symbol of stability and democracy.

Augustus Pugin (1812-1852)

Charles Barry (1795-1860)

As for the cost and financing, the total cost of constructing the tower was £29,000 at the time (equivalent to several million pounds today). The project was financed by the British government. The tower stands at a height of 96 meters (315 feet) and consists of four clock faces, each measuring 7 meters (23 feet) in diameter. The Great Bell weighs around 13.5 tons and strikes the hour with its distinctive deep tone. 

The Great Bell

Today, it represents a symbol of London and the UK. The clock's accuracy and reliability have made it a standard of timekeeping, and its chimes have been broadcast by the BBC for decades. The tower itself is a magnificent example of Victorian Gothic architecture and serves as a prominent landmark on the London skyline. In 2012, it was was the Elizabeth Tower to mark the Diamond Jubilee of Elizabeth II.

 Palace of Westminster

The Palace of Westminster, also known as the House of the Parliament, is an iconic building located on the banks of the River Thames in London, England. It serves as the meeting place for the two houses of the UK Parliament: the House of Commons and the House of Lords.

Palace of Westminster

It was originally built in the medieval period, with its earliest structure, Westminster Hall, dating back to 1097. However, the current palace complex was largely constructed between the 19th and 20th centuries. After a fire in 1834, which destroyed a significant portion of the medieval buildings, the palace was rebuilt. 

The architect responsible for the design and construction of the new Palace of Westminster was Charles Barry, a prominent British architect. He worked closely with Augustus Pugin, a skilled designer who contributed greatly to elaborate Gothic Revival style of the building.

Charles Barry (1795-1860)

Augustus Pugin (1812-1852)

The financing for the construction of the new palace was provided by the British government. The cost of the project was considerable, with estimates suggesting it exceeded £2 million at the time. The Palace of Westminster holds immense importance in the political and historical context of the UK. It represents the heart of the British democracy, housing the institutions that shape the country's laws and policies. 

Architecturally, the palace is considered a masterpiece of the Gothic Revival style. Both Charles and Pugin combined their talents to create a grand and intricate design, characterized by pointed arches, decorative tracery, and soaring spires. As a result, the Palace of Westminster was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987. 

Overall, the Palace of Westminster stands as an enduring symbol of British democracy and architectural excellence, attracting visitors from around the world who come to admire its beauty and learn about its rich history.

 London Bridge

The London Bridge is a historic bridge located in central London, England, spanning the River Thames. However, it is important to note that there have been multiple bridges throughout history that have been called the London Bridge.

King John of England

Construction of the Old London Bridge began in 1176 and was completed in 1209 during the reign of King John. It replaced an earlier wooden bridge, which had stood at the same location since Roman times. The construction of the bridge was by Peter de Colechurch, a priest and a architect. He designed the bridge with 19 arches and employed the use of medieval masonry techniques.

The London Bridge had a significant importance both as a crossing point over the River Thames and as a symbol of the city of London. It served as a vital transportation route, connecting the northern and southern parts of the city and facilitating trade and commerce. The bridge also became a focal point for various activities, such as markets, shops, and houses built along its length.

Old London Bridge in 1616

London Bridge today

Throughout its history, the London Bridge witnessed numerous historical events and notable occurrences. Here are a few examples:

1. Medieval Defenses: The bridge was often fortified and defended against attackers. It featured a gatehouse known as "Nonsuch House", which house the heads of traitors impaled on spikes
2. Fires and Rebuilding: The bridge suffered several fires over the centuries. One of the most devastating fires occurred in 1666 during the Great Fire of London. The bridge was rebuilt and underwent subsequent modifications. 

 "Nonsuch House"

By the 19th century, the Old London Bridge had become increasingly congested with traffic, and its structural integrity was compromised. Consequently, it was dismantled in 1831 and replaced with a new bridge, known as the New London Bridge.

The current London Bridge, constructed between 1967 and 1972, stands adjacent to the original site of the Old London Bridge. Designed by architect Lord Holford, it is a modern concrete and steel bridge with a simple and functional design, serving as an important transportation link in the city. 

 The British Museum

The British Museum is renowned cultural institution located in London, United Kingdom. Its foundation began in 1753, when King George II gave his Royal Assent to the British Museum Act 1753. As a result, 20,000£ were allocated to purchase the collection of Sir Hans Sloane, a physician and collector, and establish a public museum. 

The British Museum, main entrance

King George II (reigned between 1727-1760)

Sir Hans Sloane (1660-1753)

The primary reason behind the opening of the British Museum was to make Sloane's collection and other significant artifacts accessible to the public for educational and cultural purposes. The museum's founders envisioned it as a place where people could explore and learn about various civilizations, cultures, and the natural world.

Furthermore, the British Museum houses an extensive collection of art and artifacts from around the world, covering a wide range of periods and cultures. Some of its most famous pieces of art include the Rosetta Stone, the Elgin Marbles (also known as the Parthenon Sculptures), the Egyptian mummies, the Assyrian Lion Hunt reliefs, the Sutton Hoo treasure, along with other countless priceless objects from ancient Egypt, Greece, Rome, and Mesopotamia.

Rosetta Stone

Today, the British Museum is owned and operated by the British government. It is a non-departmental public body, meaning it operates independently but is funded by the government. Its main purpose is to advance knowledge, understanding, and appreciation of the human cultures.

Architecturally, the museum's building showcases an eclectic mix of styles due to various expansions and renovations throughout its history. The original building, designed by Sir Robert Smirke, features a neoclassical facade with Greek-inspired columns and a grand entrance known as the Greek Revival style. 

Overall, the British Museum holds immense importance as one of the world's leading museums and a prominent center for cultural heritage. Its commitment to preserving and showcasing artifacts from different cultures fosters global understanding and appreciation for the diversity of human achievements throughout history.

 Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey is a renowned and historic church located in London, England. 

Westminster Abbey

The initial structure of the church dates back to the 11th century. It was built by King Edward the Confessor, who began the construction in 1045. The original abbey was a Benedictine monastery and was completed around 1065, just before Edward's death. 

King Edward the Confessor (1042-1066)

Its main purpose was to be a place of worship and as the royal burial site for the English monarchs. Secondly, it was intended to serve as a venue for coronations, royal weddings, and other significant national ceremonies. 

The exact architect is unknown, as it was constructed over an extended period with various modifications and additions made by different craftsmen and architects. However, the abbey's overall architectural plan was influenced by French Romanesque and Early English Gothic styles. It is claimed that monk named Sulcard played a role in its early design.

As for funding, King Edward the Confessor provided significant financial resources for the abbey's construction. Subsequent monarchs and wealthy individuals made contributions over the centuries to expand and enhance the abbey's architecture and features.

The abbey showcases a mix of architectural styles due to its extended construction period and subsequent additions. The core structure displays Romanesque elements, while the additions and renovations reflect Gothic architectural features. The soaring pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and large stained glass windows are typical of the Gothic style.

Westminster Abbey boasts several notable features. Its impressive facade includes twin towers, intricate stone carvings, and a rose window. The interior is adorned with beautiful stained glass windows, stone tracery, and ornate sculptural details. There are several chapels, including the famous Henry VII's Lady Chapel which contains the Poet's Corner, where famous writers and poets are commemorated.

Henry VII's Lady Chapel, exterior view

Nevertheless, Westminster Abbey holds immense historical and cultural significance. It has been the site of coronations since William the Conqueror in 1066, making it an essential venue for the ceremonial crowning of British monarchs. It is also the burial place of numerous notable figures, including monarchs, statesmen, poets, and scientists. 

Here is a list of famous people, apart from British monarchs, who are buried here:

Geoffrey Chaucer (1340-1400), English poet

Charles Dickens (1812-1870), English writer

David Livingstone (1813-1873), Scottish explorer

 London Stock Exchange

The London Stock Exchange (LSE) is one of the world's oldest and largest stock exchanges. It was established in London, England. The precise date of its founding is somewhat debated, but it can be traced back to the late 17th century. 

Coat of arms of the LSE

The roots of the LSE can be traced back to Jonathan's Coffee-House, which was opened in 1688. This establishment became a popular meeting place for traders and merchants to exchange news and conduct business. Over time, this informal gathering evolved into a formal stock exchange. 

A plaque in Change Alley marking the location of the Coffee-House

The main supporters of the LSE were traders, merchants, and investors who recognized the need for a centralized marketplace to buy and sell shares in companies. By having a regulated exchange, investors could have confidence in the fairness and transparency of transactions. The LSE aimed to provide a platform for raising capital and facilitating investment opportunities, thus promoting economic growth.

The opposition came primarily from those who preferred the existing system of informal trading or were skeptical about the idea of formalizing the trading process. Some also argued that a regulated exchange would stifle entrepreneurial spirit or give an advantage to certain participants. Eventually, the proponents of the stock exchange prevailed, and it gradually gained acceptance and prominence.

As for the position of the British Monarchy, historically, it did not have a direct involvement or explicit stance regarding the establishment of the LSE. However, the monarchy played a broader role in shaping the economic and regulatory environment within which the exchange operated. The British Monarchy, as the head of state, supported measures to foster economic development and stability, which indirectly benefited the stock exchange and other financial institutions.

Over the years, the LSE has grown in significance and stature, becoming a global financial hub. It has played a pivotal role in facilitating the trading of equities, bonds, derivatives, and other financial instruments. The LSE has also been at the forefront of adopting innovative technologies and expanding its services to cater the evolving needs of market participants. 

The Great Plague of London (1665)

The Great Plague of London 

(1665) 

The Great Plague of London, also known as the Black Death, was a devastating epidemic that struck the City of London in the 17th century. The plague started in 1665; its exact origins of the disease remains unknown, but it is widely believed to have been caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, which is transmitted by fleas that infest black rats.

Depiction of the Great Plague 

The disease spread rapidly throughout the city due to the dense population and unsanitary living conditions. London at the time had around 460,000 inhabitants, and the cramped and dirty streets provided a perfect breeding ground for the disease-carrying fleas.

The Great Plague of London lasted for about 18 months, from 1665 to 1666. The highest mortality rate were recorded during the summer months when the fleas and rats thrived. The exact number of deaths during the Great Plague is uncertain, as accurate record-keeping was challenging at the time. However, it is estimated that approximately 100,000 people, or around a quarter of London's population, died as a result of the plague. The death toll was highest among the poor and densely populated area of the city. 

In an attempt to halt the spread of the disease, various measures were implemented. These included quarantine measures, the closures of infected houses, the burning of contaminated belongings, but they proved ineffective in stopping the spread. 

The Great Plague eventually ended in 1666. It is believed that a combination of factors contributed to its decline, including the onset of cooler weather, which reduced flea activity, and the Great Fire of London in September 1666, which destroyed large portions of the city, including many of the plague-infested areas, and is thought to have helped eradicate the remaining rats and fleas.

The Tower Bridge

The Tower Bridge is a famous landmark in London, England. It was built between 1886 and 1894 and was officially opened on June 30, 1894. The bridge was designed by the architect Sir Horace Jones in collaboration with the engineer Sir John Wolfe Barry. Sir Horace Jones served as the Architect and Surveyor to the City of London, and he was responsible for designing many other notable structures in London during that time.

Tower Bridge

Sir Horace Jones (1819-1887)

Sir John Wolfe Barry (1836-1918)

The construction of the Tower Bridge was initiated to address the increasing need for a crossing over the River Thames in the east of London. The area's growing population and expanding commercial activity necessitated a new bridge that could accommodate river traffic while allowing road traffic to pass uninterrupted. 

The total cost of constructing Tower Bridge amounted to around 1.2 million pounds, which was a significant sum at that time. The City of London Corporation and the Bridge House Estates funded the project. There was also some criticism during the construction due to its distinctive design. Some critics argued that its Gothic architectural style clashed with the surrounding structures and that a more traditional style should have been chosen. Fortunately, the bridge's unique appearance soon became iconic and widely recognized. 

Some interesting facts about the Towe Bridge:

• In 1876, the Corporation of London held a competition to design a new foot and vehicle bridge. More than 50 designs were submitted
• The construction team worked at heights up to 60m, with no safety nets or harnesses; 10 people lost their lives and 29 were seriously injured
• Weight of the steel used: 10,000t, equivalent to 5,400 London black cabs
• Weight of each tower: 70,000t, equivalent to 37,840 London black cabs
• Concrete used: over 53,000 cubic meters, equivalent to 24,300 London telephone boxes
• Length of Bridge: 430m from shore to shore
• Height of walkways: 33.5m above road level
• Height of Bridge: 63m from road level to top of the towers
• The roof consists of 48t slate (24 black cabs) and 55,000 copper nails
• A law was passed in 1885 still gives river traffic priority. As a result, if a ship needs to pass through the Tower Bridge, all road vehicles have to wait
• In 1976, steam engines were replaced by electric engines and oil hydraulics

The Great Fire of London (1666)

The Great Fire of London

(1666)

The Great Fire of London was a major event that occurred in the City of London, England, in 1666. It had a major significance in the city's history and caused widespread destruction. The fire started on the night of September 2, 1666, in a bakery on Pudding Lane, near London Bridge.

The bakery was owned by Thomas Farriner, the royal baker to King Charles II. The fire began when a spark from the bakery's oven ignited some nearby straw or fuel, quickly spreading to the wooden structures nearby. The flames rapidly engulfed the area, fueled by strong winds and the predominantly wooden buildings of the city. Fortunately, Farriner and his family managed to escape the building.

 

While the cause of the fire is uncertain, it is widely believed that the fire was accidental and not deliberately started. The Great Fire of London lasted for 4 days, from September 2 to September 6, 1666. Overall, there were 13,200 houses, 87 churches and numerous other buildings destroyed. As a result, 70,000 people were left homeless.

In the aftermath, there were attempts to find someone to blame. A French watchmaker named Robert Hubert confessed starting the fire, but his confession was likely coerced. He was later found guilty and executed, but it was subsequently revealed that he couldn't have been responsible as he was not even in London at the time of the fire.

Execution of Robert Hubert

An official inquiry, known as the ''Rebuilding of London Act 1666'', was conducted to investigate the causes and make recommendations for rebuilding the city. The conclusion was that the fire was accidental and recommended that the buildings had to constructed with better materials, and streets must be widened to prevent the spread of future fires.

 The Monument

The Monument to the Great Fire of London is a well-known landmark located the northern end of London Bridge in the City of London, England. It was built to commemorate the devastating Great Fire of London, which occurred in 1666 and ravaged a significant portion of the city.

The Monument

The Great Fire of London by an unknown painter (1675)

The monument was designed by Sir Christopher Wren, the same person who designed St. Paul's Cathedral, and it is a column with a viewing platform and golden urn at its top. The column stands at a height of 202 feet (62 meters), which is the exact distance between the monument and the site where the Great Fire began. 

The construction was commissioned by the English Parliament, which appointed a committee to oversee its creation. The funding came from a tax imposed on coal brought into the city, known as the ''Coal Tax''. It was completed in 1677, and it stands as a symbol of London's resilience and the city's ability to rise from the ashes of destruction. The structure also showcase the Baroque style, which was very popular during the period. 

Additionally, the Monument is a historic reminder of the city's darkest hour. It serves as a memorial to the lives lost and the immense destruction caused by the fire, which led to major urban planning reforms and the implementation of stricter fire safety regulations in the city. 

 St. Paul's Cathedral

Saint Paul's Cathedral is a magnificent Anglican church located in the heart of London, England. It is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city and holds great historical, religious, and architectural significance. 

Saint Paul's Cathedral

The cathedral was built between 1675 and 1710, during the reign of King Charles II. It was designed as a replacement for the previous cathedral, which was destroyed in the Great Fire of London in 1666. The construction was a part of the broader plan to rebuild the city after the devastating fire.

The cathedral was primarily built to serve as a place of worship and to be the central church of the Diocese of London. It was intended to be a symbol of the city's resilience and the reestablishment of the Anglican Church following the fire. The design of the cathedral was influenced by classical architecture and was meant to rival the grandeur of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome.

Sir Christopher Wren (1632-1723)

The architect behind it was Sir Christopher Wren, a renowned English architect. He was a versatile scientist, known for his innovative and elegant designs. He was appointed as the Surveyor of Works by Kings Charles II and was responsible for the overall design and construction supervision of the cathedral. Regarding the funding of this ambitious project, there were public donations, taxpayers money, and a substantial contribution from the British Crown as well. 

King Charles II (1660-1685)

There are several distinctive features which can describe the cathedral:

The dome, inspired by the dome of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome. It stands at 111 meters tall

The Whispering Gallery, located within the dome, famous for its unique acoustic properties

The interior of the cathedral is adorned with elaborate decorations, intricate carvings, and beautiful mosaics

Bank of England The ''Old Lady of Threadneedle Street''

Bank of England

The ''Old Lady of Threadneedle Street''

The Bank of England is the central bank of the United Kingdom. It was founded in 1694 by an Act of Parliament called the Bank of England Act 1694. The men behind its creation were a group of wealthy individuals, such as William Paterson, a Scottish entrepreneur and merchant.

Bank of England

William Paterson (1658-1719)

The primary reason of the bank was to provide a stable and reliable source of finance for the government's war effort against France during the Nine Years' War (1688-1697). Before the Bank of England had been established, England had a relatively fragmented and decentralized banking system. There were a number of private banks, goldsmiths and moneylenders that issued banknotes and conducted banking activities. However, the lack of a centralized institution to regulate and stabilize the banking system led to frequent financial crises and uncertainties. 

Of course, there were groups who opposed the creation of a central bank because it would have posed a threat to their own financial interests. An influential figure who criticized publicly this idea was Thomas Violet, a prominent merchant and writer of finance. Unfortunately, he didn't gather enough support to stop the establishment of the BoE. 

However, despite the initial opposition, the BoE managed to become the most important bank in the UK due to several factors:

1. Financial Stability
2. Government Support
3. Expansion of Functions
4. Legal Monopoly on the issuance of banknotes in England and Wales

Nowadays, the BoE is the central bank of the UK and operates independently of the government, whose main responsibilities are maintaining monetary stability, promoting financial stability, and ensuring the soundness of the financial system.

Livery company

The livery companies of the City of London are ancient and prestigious organizations that have played a significant role in the city's history and governance. These companies, also known as the ''Worshipful Companies'' or simply the City Livery, are unique to the City of London, which is the historic financial district at the heart of modern London. 

Coat of arms of the Worshipful Company of Grocers, founded in 1345, 2nd in precedence amongst the livery companies of the city

The livery companies trace their origins back to medieval times, with the earliest known company, the Weavers' Company, established in 1155. Over time, various trades and crafts formed their own guilds or fraternities to regulate their industries, protect their members' interests, maintain quality standards, and provide charitable support. These guilds eventually evolved into the livery companies we see today.

The purposes of the livery companies have evolved over time, but they generally serve the following functions:

1. Trade Regulation
2. Charity and Philanthropy
3. Social and Networking Opportunities
4. Civic Duties

Today, there are 110 livery companies, each representing a specific trade, profession, or interest. While their original regulatory functions have largely diminished, the livery companies still maintain their charitable activities, social functions and involvement in civic life. They award scholarships, grants, and prizes, support educational initiatives, and contribute to the cultural and historical heritage of the City of London. 

The City of London Corporation

Like I said, the City of London has its own governing body, called the City of London Corporation. So, 

Arms of the City of London Corporation

There is no surviving record to show us how old this governing body is but, its origins date back to the Anglo-Saxon period. After the Norman Conquest of England in 1066, the City of London was granted many special privileges under the new Anglo-Norman king, William I/the Conqueror. 

King William I of England (1066-1087)

There are many offices within the Corporation, the most important being:

• The Town Clerk, who is also the Chief Executive
• The Chamberlain, the City Treasurer and Financial Officer
• The City Remembrancer, who is responsible for protocol, ceremonial and security issues
• The City Surveyor, who is responsible for the central London commercial property portfolio
• The Comptroller and City Solicitor, legal officer
• The Recorder of London, the senior judge at the Central Criminal Court
• The Common Serjeant, the second senior judge at the Central Criminal Court

There is also a leader of the Corporation, with the title of the Lord Mayor of London. Please, don't confuse it with the Mayor of London😁. The office was first established in 1189, Henry Fitz-Ailwin de Londonestone being the first holder.

Statue of Henry Fitz-Ailwin de Londonestone, the 1st Mayor of the City of London (1189-1215)

The City of London.The main core of London

The City of London

The main core of London

London is both the capital and the most populated city of the UK. It is composed of 32 boroughs, one of them being the City of London.

 

A map of London. The area in red represents the City of London

This specific borough is quite unique among the others. Firstly, it constitutes most of London from its settlement from Romans, when it was called Londinium, to the Middle Ages. Because of this historical background, the City of London is not a part of London, but an enclave. I know you are shocked😂😂😂.

A map of Londinium

London around 1300

Furthermore, it has its own mayor, the Lord Mayor of the City of London, which is different from the Mayor of London, and its own governing body, the City of London Corporation. Additionally, it is has its own police force and, along with Canary Wharf, it is the main central business district of the UK. Now, here is a list of important buildings located within the City of London:

St. Paul's Cathedral

The Royal Exchange

The Bank of England

Central Criminal Court/ Old Bailey

These are just some of the most important buildings within the district. Don't expect to present all of them 😂😂😂. Another interesting fact is that despite having a population of only 9000 people, between 500000-1 million people are employed within the City of London.