All Hallows-by-the-Tower

Is it haunted? This question often arises when standing before the ancient walls of All Hallows-by-the-Tower. Given its age and history, it wouldn’t be surprising. All Hallows-by-the-Tower holds the title of the oldest church in London. Founded in 675 AD, it witnessed centuries of London’s tumultuous past. This church survived not only the Great Fire of London in 1666 but also the devastating Blitz during World War II. Imagine the stories these walls could tell. Within All Hallows-by-the-Tower lies a captivating blend of architectural styles. A Saxon arch, constructed with repurposed Roman tiles, hints at the church’s early beginnings. This arch, revealed during the Blitz, whispers of a time long past. Inside, you’ll find an intricate font cover, a masterpiece crafted by the renowned Grinling Gibbons in 1682. This treasure, thankfully spared during the war, stands as a testament to the church’s endurance. But the true heart of All Hallows-by-the-Tower lies beneath, in its crypt. Here, a piece of lead, melted and deformed by the heat of the Blitz, serves as a poignant reminder of the destructive power of war. In this crypt, you’ll also find fragments of a Roman pavement, a tangible link to London’s Roman past. All Hallows-by-the-Tower is not just a place of worship, it’s a time capsule. It’s a testament to resilience, a symbol of faith, and a chronicle of London’s captivating history etched in stone and spirit.