St Olave Hart Street, Gothic church in City of London, England
St Olave Hart Street is a Gothic church in the City of London with stone walls, medieval windows, and a brick tower built in 1732. The building stands near Fenchurch Street railway station and retains much of its original medieval character.
The church was founded in 1250 and survived both the Great Fire of London in 1666 and German bombing during World War II. This resilience made it a remarkable witness to centuries of London's history.
Writers and diarists found meaning in this place, with Samuel Pepys being among those who worshipped regularly within its walls. People still gather here today seeking a quiet space for reflection amidst the busy financial district.
The best time to visit is on a weekday morning or afternoon when the building is open to visitors. It is easily accessible since it sits very close to Fenchurch Street railway station and is located centrally in the City.
The churchyard entrance displays carved stone skulls and crossbones dating to the 1600s, which Charles Dickens memorably called Saint Ghastly Grim. These striking symbols marked the resting places of victims from London's past plagues and disease outbreaks.
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