2023 marks three hundred years since the death of Sir Christopher Wren, one of Great Britain’s most famed architects and the chief architect of the Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich, amongst other iconic buildings across London and the UK.
Wren’s influence spans the centuries, from the world-famous St Paul’s Cathedral to centres of learning in Greenwich, Oxford and Cambridge, churches and palaces fit for a king. Alongside his many talents for architecture, he was also a keen astronomer, physicist, mathematician, and anatomist.
To commemorate Wren’s extraordinary legacy, some of his most famous buildings and associated institutions will be hosting fascinating events and activities throughout the year.
Click on the link to find out about Wren events across London and beyond.
Wren 300 Events
2023 will be a year dedicated to Sir Christopher Wren. We will be hosting a variety of events including a unique photographic exhibition, interactive family activities and scavenger hunts, commemorative Chapel concerts, and specialised tours exploring the life and career of Sir Christopher Wren.
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Who was Christopher Wren?
As well as being one of England’s most acclaimed architects, he was something of a polymath, with professions including anatomist, astronomer, mathematician and physicist.
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Wren's vision for the Royal Hospital
Sir Christopher Wren needed all his experience and skill when he worked on the Royal Hospital for Seamen. Not only did he have to incorporate the existing King’s House into his own design, but he also had to meet Mary II’s request for a river view from the Queen’s House.
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Foundation of the Royal Hospital
Queen Mary, daughter of James II, had an interest – like her father – in the navy and particularly with the welfare of sailors. It was her idea to build an institution to house old and infirm sailors, in the same way as Chelsea Hospital did with soldiers.
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