The main churches which are normally historic and so tourist attraction are under Church of England (Anglican). Windsor abbey, St. Stephen church (Westminster church), St. George chapel inside Windsor castle, St. Paul’s church and Canterbury are all Church of England following Anglican Communion. In fact almost all famous historical churches in UK are under Church of England.
Note – Below is the brief about factions of Christianity based on my study as a tourist before seeing the churches. It may not be very correct but logically it seems Ok to me to prepare myself to see different churches in UK.
Roman Catholic and Catholic – Originally there was one Christianity and one church was Roman Catholic. Later there was faction in Roman Catholic on account of difference that where the head church be located. Those who supported Rome as location were called Roman Catholic and other small faction supported Constantinople (modern Istanbul in Turkey) called themselves as Catholic (Greek Orthodox or Orthodox Catholic). Catholics and Roman Catholics see in the pope the successor of the Apostle Peter, the first head of their Church, who was appointed by Jesus. During the 4th century AD, the Roman Empire adopted Catholicism as the official religion.
Church of England – Also called Angelic church. Church of England broke from Roman catholic as Henry VIII requested Pope of Rome to divorce his wife but permission was not granted. To take revenge Henry separated churches of England from Rome and and declared King as head of church rather than Pope. He intend to remain Catholic but after his death in 1509, Protestant’s reforms were carried out by his son Edward I.
Protestant – These Protestant reforms were based on reforms suggested by Martin Luther and John Knox.
Edward VI died at very early of reign and his sister Mary I again brought back Roman Catholicism. She was executed soon and her sister Elizabeth I reversed decision of Mary I and brought back Protectants. UK today is Protestant country and near to Catholicism but their main churches are Church of England (Angelic). But their personal traditions may prevent the unification between the churches.
This church dedicated to St. Paul is existing since 1400 years. What we see today is not that old church but designed by Architect Christopher Wren after it was devastated in 1663 fire.
It attracts 1.5 million tourists every year.
St. Paul’s seems to be born between 5 BC to 5 AD. Paul was a Roman citizen by birth and a Jewish. He was converted to Christianity in 31-36 AD. Paul’s contribution to Christianity is said to be profound and pervasive globally and even today it is followed.
The entry fee into this church is as high as £21 for adults and pound £9 for children. During prayer timings visitors are allowed to see the church. That time photo is not allowed.
Prayer timings suitable for tourists are – 10 AM and 4.30 PM.
We reached this church at about 4.15 PM and took photos outside. At 4.30 PM we saw many people entering the church and we also followed suit. The church is beautiful and one of the huge churches I have seen.
Since prayer was going on we could not climb 163 steps to reach the Dome. As per the information there are whispering galleries which can be heard till 32 meters.
The beautiful views of Millennium bridges and city are adjacent to this church at about half a KM of walk.
After Tower bridge this one is the second attractive one in Millennium bridge. It is best spot to take the photo of St. Paul’s church and this bridge. This must be one of the most popular spot for photo.
There are several medieval landmarks like centuries old hotels still running, old ship, Southwark cathedral, Shakespeare theatre, Clink prison and ancient remains of Great London wall. These can be seen by following Jubilee walkway and Southwark paths along Thames river. There are good restaurants providing us pasta etc. One pasta costs about £18.
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A very old ship can be seen on Southwark pathway. This ship named Golden Hinde first sailed in 1577. Its main aim was to sail to the pacific, explore new territories and raid Spanish colonies. In 3 years it returned back to London and cemented its place in History as the first English ship to circumnevigate the world. It played a key role in English Maritime..
Epilogue
King Charles III, present king of UK was married here with Lady Diana.
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