Architekt Sir Wren was instrumental in the restoration of London after the fire

East Knoyle - One of the most famous British architects, Sir Christopher Wren, who was born 385 years ago, on October 20, 1632, was instrumental in the resurrection of London from the ashes after the Great Fire in 1666. Wren was behind the reconstruction of 55 churches, including the magnificent St. Paul's Cathedral in London, completed in 1710. He also designed secular buildings. He was the founder of the Royal Society and his scientific work was appreciated by Isaac Newton and Blaise Pascal.

The Great Fire of London broke out on September 2, 1666, lasted five days, and largely destroyed the city; among the 89 burned churches was St. Paul's Cathedral. Wren was commissioned in 1668 to design a new sanctuary. However, it was not easy for him – his fourth design, regarded as a variant, was the one accepted. Wren was not very pleased with it; even though construction had already begun, he obtained approval for decorative modifications, during which the plan for the cathedral was reverted to the first design.

Wren was also a prominent astronomer, geometer, and mathematician. He served as the head of the Royal Society from 1680 to 1682. The architect died on February 25, 1723.