Why is there a grasshopper perched atop the Royal Exchange? This magnificent structure, a symbol of London’s enduring commercial spirit, holds a tale as intriguing as the grasshopper itself. The Royal Exchange, founded in the 16th century, wasn’t always the grand edifice you see today. It’s risen from the ashes not once, but twice, destroyed by fires that swept through London. The current neoclassical building, designed by Sir William Tite, was opened by Queen Victoria in 1844. But the real story begins with its founder, Sir Thomas Gresham. Legend has it that the discovery of a lost child, his ancestor, was guided by the chirping of a grasshopper. This humble insect became the emblem of the Gresham family, forever linked to their legacy. Look closely and you’ll see the golden Gresham Grasshopper, a weathervane rescued from the 1838 fire, proudly crowning the clock tower. It’s a silent testament to resilience, reflecting the spirit of the merchants who rebuilt this hub of commerce time and again. The Royal Exchange, a witness to centuries of trade and transformation, stands as a symbol of London’s enduring place in the world.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to