“A gateway to the City.” That’s how people used to describe the imposing Temple Bar Statue. You’re standing before a monument with a rather fascinating and, dare I say, gruesome past. This isn’t its original location. The Temple Bar Statue once stood proudly at the junction of Fleet Street and the Strand, marking the grand entrance to the City of London. It was more than just a statue; it was a symbolic gateway. Imagine a time when the City of London had clearly defined borders, marked by such impressive gates.
The Temple Bar Statue has a long and storied history, dating back to the 13th century. It was rebuilt several times, with the most notable incarnation designed by the legendary Sir Christopher Wren in 1672. This grand Portland stone arch wasn’t just about aesthetics; it played a pivotal role in ceremonies and processions. Kings and queens would pass under its arch, solidifying the City’s importance. But Temple Bar Statue also bore witness to a darker side of history. In the 18th century, it became a gruesome spectacle. The heads of traitors, boiled to prevent decomposition, were displayed on spikes atop the arch. Imagine the chilling sight!
However, the city’s growth demanded change. In 1878, the increasingly congested streets led to the dismantling of the Temple Bar Statue. But this wasn’t the end of its journey. It was carefully disassembled and re-erected at Theobalds Park in Hertfordshire. Thankfully, London recognized its historical significance and yearned for its return. In 2004, the Temple Bar Statue found its new home in Paternoster Square, near St. Paul’s Cathedral.