Great Pagoda, Pagoda in Kew Gardens, London Borough of Richmond upon Thames, United Kingdom.
The Great Pagoda rises 49.5 meters high with ten octagonal floors, featuring balconies with Chinese Chippendale railings and curved roofs covered in green and white tiles.
Sir William Chambers constructed the pagoda in 1762 as a gift for Princess Augusta, the founder of Kew Gardens, drawing from his direct experience with Chinese architecture.
The structure represents the increased interest in Chinese design during the 18th century, when trade between China and Britain expanded substantially.
Visitors can climb 253 steps to reach the viewing gallery, which provides extensive views across London and the surrounding Richmond area.
The Ministry of Defence used the pagoda during World War II to test bomb trajectories by dropping prototypes through holes cut in each floor.
Location: London Borough of Richmond upon Thames
Inception: 1762
Architects: William Chambers
Architectural style: chinoiserie
Floors above the ground: 10
GPS coordinates: 51.47129,-0.29578
Latest update: May 27, 2025 13:23
The Ile-de-France region includes castles, museums and gardens outside Paris. These locations display regional history through medieval fortresses, art galleries, botanical gardens and manor houses. The structures represent architectural styles from the 12th to 20th century.
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