What is The Monument in London?

by

Declan Ellis

The Monument is not only one of Londons most striking landmarks but a permanent reminder of the Great Fire of London, which raged through London in 1666. Standing at 202ft high, The Monument is positioned between Fish Street Hill and Monument Street. As well as viewing The Monument London from the ground, visitors can climb to the top and witness some of the best views London has to offer.

The Great Fire of London landmark was designed by Sir Christopher Wren and Dr Robert Hooke. While the Great Fire history shows much devastation across the City, The Monument pays tribute to it in a more positive light.

As for some Great Fire history it all began in a bakery on Pudding Lane on September 2nd 1666, just 202 feet from where The Monument London stands today. The bakery ovens were not properly turned off, which is what first sparked the fire. As most of the buildings were made of wood back in those times, the flames were free to spread rapidly and easily throughout the city, lasting four days and destroying one third of all of the buildings in London, including iconic locations such as Castle Baynard and Gothic St Pauls.

The Monument has been honouring the Great Fire since it was officially opened in 1677. Work began on The Monument in 1671, but due to difficulty obtaining enough Portland stone to meet the required dimensions, and the safety of the transport (we were at war with the Dutch at this point), it took six years to complete. As Londons most iconic Great Fire of London landmark, many regard it as one of the most significant and treasured monuments in the City.

This year, the 350th anniversary of the Great Fire of London has been commemorated at The Monument London through different events, including exclusively opening its doors for the public to enter for free. This is part of the spirit of The Monument it brings people together in memory of a tragic but momentous time in the history of our country. The Great Fire of London landmark is also hosting a Design your Monument competition for budding artists between the ages of 6 and 14 to mark this special anniversary.

Earlier this year, a free mobile app was launched for The Monument, which offers a fresh perspective on the Great Fire that is unique to The Monument London. The app includes key facts from the Great Fire history, 360 degree digital content showing views of the cityscape as seen from the top of The Monument, a newsfeed to keep users up to date with The Monument and more. You can download it from iTunes or the App Store.

The Monument London is easy to find and a fantastic place to visit for people of all ages, providing beautiful views across the Citys panorama. For more information on The Monument and the Great Fire history, please see The Monuments official website. There, you will also find information on upcoming events at The Monument London, details on the mobile app, contact information and the ability to buy tickets prior to your visit.

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