All Hallows by the Tower

Layers of London’s Past

All Hallows by the Tower stands as a living chronicle of London’s evolution. Beneath its foundations lie remnants of Roman domestic life, including a preserved 2nd-century pavement and gravestones. The church itself was established in 675 AD, making it the oldest in the City of London. Over the centuries, it has been rebuilt and expanded, absorbing architectural styles from the Saxon, Norman, and medieval periods. The crypt museum offers a journey through time, revealing Roman mosaics, Saxon coffins, and medieval artifacts that tell the story of the city’s earliest inhabitants.

Surviving the Storms of History

The church’s resilience is legendary. It narrowly escaped destruction during the Great Fire of London in 1666, thanks to Admiral William Penn, who ordered the surrounding buildings to be blown up to create firebreaks. The church also endured the Blitz of World War II, with only its walls and tower surviving the bombings. The interior was rebuilt in the 1950s, but the scars of war remain visible in twisted metal and reconstructed stonework. The Saxon arch, revealed by bomb damage, is a poignant reminder of the church’s enduring presence.

Notable Figures and Royal Connections

All Hallows by the Tower has played a significant role in British history. It served as a temporary resting place for the bodies of those executed on Tower Hill, including Sir Thomas More and Archbishop Laud. William Penn, founder of Pennsylvania, was baptized here in 1644, and John Quincy Adams, the sixth U.S. president, was married in the church in 1797. The church’s connection to the Knights Templar is evident in the altar made from stones taken from Richard the Lionheart’s Crusader castle at Atlit in Palestine.

Architectural and Artistic Treasures

The church’s architecture is a blend of ancient and modern. The current tower, completed in 1659, is the only surviving feature from the Commonwealth period after the Civil War. The interior features a 15th-century exterior, a 16th-century organ, and wood carvings possibly by Grinling Gibbons. The crypt museum houses a wealth of artifacts, including Roman gravestones, Saxon coffins, and the baptismal record of William Penn. The church’s stained glass windows and monuments reflect its rich artistic heritage.

A Place of Worship and Reflection

Today, All Hallows by the Tower continues to serve as a place of prayer and worship. Visitors can attend services, light a candle, or simply take a quiet moment in one of the chapels. The church’s peaceful atmosphere and historical significance make it a unique destination for those seeking a deeper connection to London’s past. The crypt museum offers guided tours and volunteer-led explanations, providing insight into the church’s many layers of history.