Why is Monument London important to the City of London?
In the heart of the financial district of London stands a 61 meters, (202 feet) Doric column, simply known as Monument.
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The Monument is an important landmark in London. It is a permanent reminder to the Great Fire of London in 1666 and the rebuilding of London from its ashes. The Monument was built between 1671 and 1677.
The Great Fire of London and Monument
The Great Fire of London was a significant event in London’s history because it destroyed the greater part of the City. The Great Fire brought the City to a standstill, severely damaging thousands of houses and buildings and hundreds of streets. Although the loss of lives was little, the impact of the fire was hugely felt by Londoners.
The only buildings to survive the Great Fire were the Leadenhall Market, the Royal Exchange, the Middle Temple Hall, the Staple Inn and the Guildhall. The source of the fire was a baker’s house in Pudding Lane and it started on Sunday 2nd September 1666. The fire was extinguished on Wednesday 5th September 1666.
Monument as a landmark
So, in keeping with ancient tradition to mark an event with a landmark, the Doric column was built. It was fascinating to discover that the precise location of the Monument was also a significant factor. It is located at the junction of Monument Street and Fish Street Hill. It is 61 metres (202 feet) high which is the exact distance between the baker’s shop in Pudding Lane and the Monument.
Design of the Monument
The column was designed by Dr Robert Hooke with collaboration from Sir Christopher Wren. It is a narrow-spiral stone stairs of 311 steps leading to a viewing platform near the top of the Monument. The Monument is surmounted by a drum and a copper urn from which flames emerge to symbolise the Great Fire.
The Monument was initially used as a centre for experiments for the Royal Society but this was soon discontinued. Thereafter, the Monument became a point of historic interest as a unique structure.
The Monument is one of the popular “must-see” places in London and it offers a 360 degree spectacular panoramic views across London from the public gallery which is about 160 feet high.
It is inexpensive and is a landmark in London to tick-off your list. I highly recommend it.
Practical information on Monument London
Summer Opening Hours: April – September 9:30am – 6:00pm daily (last admission 5:30pm)
Winter Opening Hours: October – March 9:30am – 5:30pm daily (last admission 5:00pm)
The Monument is closed from 24 – 26 December.
Children (aged 5-15) £2.30
Students (with identification) £3.00
Aged 60+ £3.00
Joint tickets for Tower Bridge Exhibition and the Monument
Children (aged 5-15) £5.00
Students (with identification) £7.50
Aged 60+ £7.50
1 Adult & 2 Children £18.30
2 Adults & 1 Child £23.10
2 Adults & 2 Children £26.50
2 Adults & 3 / 4 Children £30.90
Under 5 FREE
PLEASE NOTE: The Monument only accepts cash payment, and children under the age of 13 must be accompanied by an adult.
Travelling to Monument
Use Monument Station on the District and Circle lines; or
London Bridge on the Northern and Jubilee lines.
Use London Bridge, Fenchurch Street or Tower Gateway DLR stations
Use numbers 17, 521, 21, 43, 133, 141, 48, 149 (all routes go through London Bridge).
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Happy Discovering London!
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