On 27 April 2023, a new exhibition will open at St Paul’s Cathedral to mark the 300th anniversary of Sir Christopher Wren’s death. Christopher Wren: The Quest for Knowledge commemorates the remarkable life of the mathematician, astronomer, physicist, anatomist, and one of Britain’s greatest architects.
Wren was responsible for building 51 churches in the City of London in the aftermath of the Great Fire of 1666, as well as St Paul’s Cathedral. St Paul’s has long been considered one of his greatest achievements and Wren is buried under a gravestone within the Cathedral with an inscription which says ‘If you seek his memorial, look about you.’
The exhibition will explore and reflect on the life and career of Wren, charting his achievements in mathematics, astronomy and physiology, as well as the design and building of St Paul’s Cathedral. Employing the use of Sensory Learning Theory in designing the exhibition, visitors will be able to experience and learn about Wren’s life through different senses including touch and smell. As well as seeing Wren’s own tools on display, visitors will be able to handle objects, with the smell of the Great Fire of London even being replicated.
The exhibition forms part of the Wren 300 programme of events and activities running throughout 2023. These vary from projects involving school pupils building a replica of the dome of St Paul’s to a ‘Wrenathon’ of choirs across The City of London, exploring the work of Sir Christopher Wren through heritage, conservation and musical activities.
Dean of St Paul’s Cathedral, the Very Revd Andrew Tremlett, commented:
“Working in this spectacular building is a joy, and every day I am grateful to the man responsible for constructing this remarkable cathedral. As we mark 300 years since Wren’s death, this exhibition forms part of our celebration of his extraordinary life, work and achievements.
“With a variety of materials including drawings, photographs and treasures, St Paul’s new exhibition will provide visitors with an insight into the life of the revolutionary scientist, mathematician and architect.
“We welcome all those across London and the globe to join us in our commemoration of Britain’s greatest architect.”
Bishop of London, the Rt Revd and Rt Hon Dame Sarah Mullally, added:
“This exhibition is a fantastic way to inspire new generations to engage in Sir Christopher Wren’s life and work and their relationship with the Christian faith.
“We are indebted to Wren for the extraordinary variety and legacy of his church buildings across the city. To this day, buildings like St Paul’s continue to support communities across London, as places for Christians to worship, as well as people of all faiths and none to come together.”
