Sir Christopher Wren

Description: (Architect)

Sir Christopher Wren was the most celebrated English architect of his time, best known for the design of St Paul's Cathedral, London. Born to a rector, Wren was the only surviving son of their parents and was delicate in health from an early age. After being schooled privately at home for few years, Christopher Wren attended the Westminster School and was then enrolled in the Oxford University. Inclined towards mathematics from a young age and apparently destined for a career as a scientific scholar, after completing his Masters, Wren became the professor of astronomy in London. Wren's interest in architecture developed when he was commissioned to design the Sheldonian Theatre in Oxford. Later, he visited Paris to study French and Italian baroque styles which inspired and influenced his later works. After the 1666 Great Fire of London destroyed most of the city, the king appointed him as one of the architectural commissioners to oversee the rebuilding of the city. Over the next 46 years, Wren designed and supervised the rebuilding of 51 city churches including his masterpiece, St. Paul’s Cathedral. One of the reasons for his acclaimed work was that he insisted on the finest materials and a very high standard of workmanship. Later, he also received royal commissions to design hospitals and many other buildings all around England. Rightly regarded as the most significant British architect of all time, Sir Christopher Wren skillfully interpreted the Baroque style in England and dominated English architecture for 50 years

Overview

Birthday October 20, 1632 (Libra)
Died on February 25, 0
Spouse/Ex- Jane Fitzwilliam
Parents Christopher Wren
Mary Cox

Did you know

When did Sir Christopher Wren design St. Paul's Cathedral? Sir Christopher Wren designed St. Paul's Cathedral in 1675 after the previous cathedral was destroyed in the Great Fire of London.
What other famous buildings did Sir Christopher Wren design in addition to St. Paul's Cathedral? In addition to St. Paul's Cathedral, Sir Christopher Wren also designed buildings such as the Royal Naval College in Greenwich, the Royal Observatory in Greenwich, and the Tom Tower at Christ Church College, Oxford.
What architectural style is Sir Christopher Wren known for? Sir Christopher Wren is known for his work in the English Baroque architectural style, characterized by grandeur, symmetry, and elaborate ornamentation.
How did Sir Christopher Wren contribute to the development of London after the Great Fire? After the Great Fire of London, Sir Christopher Wren played a significant role in the reconstruction of the city by designing numerous churches, public buildings, and monuments that still stand today.
What is the significance of Sir Christopher Wren's work in the history of architecture? Sir Christopher Wren is considered one of the greatest architects in British history, known for his innovative designs and lasting impact on the architectural landscape of London and beyond.
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