Rights Managed > Historic England > England at War > England at War 1939-45 > The Blitz
St Mary-le-Bow CXP01_01_083
Filename: cxp01_01_083.jpg
Size: 7238 x 4735 (5.7MB)
Date: 19th August 2021
Source: Historic England
Credit: Historic England Archive
Copyright Status: Copyrighted Work
Source: Historic England Archive
Owner URL: https://images.historicenglandservices.org.uk/
Job Title: Photographer
© Historic England Archive
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Historic England
St Mary-le-Bow CXP01_01_083
St Mary-le-Bow Church, Cheapside, City of London. A view looking south-east across a bomb damaged landscape towards St Mary-le-Bow Church, with a corner of Goldsmiths Hall just visible on the right.
St Mary-le-Bow was rebuilt by Christopher Wren after the Great Fire of London in 1666. During the Second World War it was almost destroyed by bombing on 10th May 1941 with incendiary bombs causing a fire which sent the bells in its tower crashing down to the ground. The tower was left standing and restoration of the church began in 1956
Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places
Media ID 22199961
© Historic England Archive
Blitz Bomb Damage Destruction Loss And Loss And Destruction Parish Church Second World War Stuart
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the resilience and beauty of St Mary-le-Bow Church in the heart of London. Standing tall amidst a bomb-damaged landscape, this iconic parish church has withstood both the devastating Great Fire of London in 1666 and the destructive bombing during World War II. Rebuilt by the renowned architect Christopher Wren after the Great Fire, St Mary-le-Bow became a symbol of hope and renewal for Londoners. However, its fate was once again tested on that fateful day - May 10th, 1941. The church was almost completely destroyed by incendiary bombs, causing a fire that brought down its majestic bells from their tower. Yet, against all odds, the tower remained standing as a testament to human perseverance. It stood as a reminder that even in times of great loss and destruction, there is always room for restoration and rebuilding. The image also offers glimpses into history beyond just St Mary-le-Bow Church itself. On the right side of the frame, we catch sight of Goldsmiths Hall – another historic landmark nestled within this war-torn scene. Photographer Charles William Prickett's lens beautifully captures not only architectural marvels but also echoes of resilience echoing through time. This powerful image serves as an enduring tribute to those who faced adversity head-on while reminding us all that strength can emerge from even our darkest moments.
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