It is a common myth that St Paul’s escaped damage during the Blitz, but in fact the Cathedral was to endure two direct hits by high explosives during the Second World War.

The design, construction and decoration of the choir enclosure and sanctuary occupied Wren and his assistants at least four and a half years.

The earliest known scheme to improve the Cathedral churchyard is an outline study by Wren and Hawksmoor, drawn over a survey of the whole precinct prepared by William Dickinson. 

A painting commissioned by the Imperial Society of Knight’s Bachelor brings a contemporary take on a well-known moment in the life of St Martin.