The original church, founded in the early 12th century, was one of the first buildings to be destroyed by the Great Fire as it stood just 300m (1000ft) from Pudding Lane.
City of London, Greater London
Its rebuilding was taken over by Wren in 1671 and mostly completed by 1684.
That building had nine bays incorporating a tower at the west end but, between 1762 and 1768, the two westernmost bays were demolished to allow for a widened pedestrian route through the base of the tower onto old London Bridge; the tower's lowest storey thus became a porch, and still is.
There have been many changes to the building since 1684. Finally, in 1924, the spacious, severe interior was restored in a neo-Baroque style to reflect its Anglo Catholic congregation.
The high altar is backed by a two storey reredos and flanked by two side chapels. On the north wall is a Russian icon, while in the south aisle stands a statue of St Magnus, holding a model of the church.
St Magnus also contains an extraordinary four metre long scale model of old London Bridge, with which it has been so intimately connected throughout the years.
Enjoy a virtual tour here:
Southwark, Greater London
Southwark Cathedral, once a priory church, is (as in monastic days) a centre for a pattern of daily worship within the English cathedral music tradition: a centre of teaching, of worship, prayer and pilgrimage, open and inclusive to all.
City of London, Greater London
You really will feel secluded in this gem of a City garden.
City of London, Greater London
When Wren rebuilt this 12th century church in 1681-86, he employed some of the greatest craftsmen of his age.
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