London Stone, Ancient boulder in Cannon Street, City of London, England.
The London Stone is a block of oolitic limestone visible in a protective case built into the facade of the building at 111 Cannon Street. The case allows passersby to see the stone from street level without entering the building.
The earliest written reference to the stone dates to around 1100. It stood for centuries on the south side of medieval Candlewick Street before being moved to its current location.
The stone gained significance when Jack Cade struck it with his sword in 1450, declaring himself Lord of London during his rebellion against Henry VI.
The stone is visible from the street at any time since the protective case is part of the building facade. Visitors can stand directly in front of the case and look through the glass.
Scientific analysis identified the material as coming from quarries in Rutland. Researchers believe it was transported to London during the Roman period.
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