Hello everybody! Today the class had a day jam packed with adventure! We started off the day by having a quick breakfast, then taking the tube to Saint Paul's Cathedral!
The Cathedral was designed by Sir Christopher Wren in 1675, and has served as a monument of hope for everyone in England. The Cathedral was one of the first of its kind to have a dome ceiling, and visitors are able to take a 150 step journey up to the top of the dome. The Cathedral also had a vast Crypt, where the bodies of the Duke of Wellington and Lord Nelseon (along with many other important figures) now lie. There are also many different memorials for various historical events, such the 9/11 attacks.
During World War II, the Cathedral represented a beacon of hope for the English, as it was often a target of air bombs. To protect the Cathedral, there was a constant brigade of firefighters who stayed above ground during the air raids to see it didn't burn down. Although it was damaged slightly by a bomb, the fact that the Cathedral remained standing after World War II helped inspire England to rebuild into a great nation again. The class was lucky enough to be able to climb the stairs to the top of the dome, and we were all given an amazing view of the Cathedral. After we made our descent down to the main floor, we were given the chance to explore. Unfortunately, photography was not allowed in the building, so you'll have to trust us when we say that it was stunning.
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| View from the top of the Cathedral |
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| View from the top of the Cathedral |
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| View from the top of the Cathedral |
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| View from the top of the Cathedral |
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| View from the top of the Cathedral |
After the Cathedral, the class then went to see another one of Wren's masterpieces: the memorial to the Great Fire of London. This tower stands 202 feet tall, and serves to commemorate all the lives lost in the fires of 1666. Guests can climb the tower (if they wish) and get a chance to see the stunning view of London. The class was steeped in awe after making the journey to the top of the monument. Seeing the architetual wonders that are Wren's masterpieces makes you appreciate of the beauty, elegance, and effort that goes into creating and designing these famous architectural landmarks.
After the Wren monuments, the class then went on to see the Bank of England. We got a chance to see an exhibit, which was about the history of the English currency. Although it was aimed at younger children, the class still were thoroughly entertained by the interactive portions of the exhibit. The museum was a perfect way to relax after going up so many steps, and after the Bank of England, the class then went back to get changed for tea and a show.
Tea is a vital part of England, so what would a stay in the country be without having an afternoon tea? The class got to experience high tea at the Cavendish Hotel, and it was an experience enjoyed by all. Sitting around trays of pastries and sandwiches, the class was able to reflect as a group about the experiences we've had thus far on our journey. Tea was so fun, because many of our classmates had never truly had English tea, and we all shared different flavors with one another. Tea was a great group bonding experience.
After our tea, the class got to go see the musical, Singing In The Rain!, at the Queen's Theater. Preformed in a small, but cozy theater, the show was absolutely fantastic. The songs were catchy and the rain dance scene was both funny and touching. Having not been to many other shows, seeing this one was a new and exciting experience that was very much enjoyed. The show was fantastic, and many are still humming the songs days after seeing it.
After the show, Professor Wolfe decided to treat the class to pizza, as sort of a midnight snack. We found a small Italian restaurant, and ordered a few pies. Little did we know that each would be over three meters! Despite the massive amount of pizza, we managed to eat most of the slices. Today was an overwhelmingly fantastic day, and as we are starting to wrap up our course, we are all appreciated for the opportunity that has been presented to us.
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3. High Tea
5. Pizza!
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