The Faithful Architect

Gracing the entrance of #StMaryLeStrand, 2 beautiful #Magnolias shelter a pair of classical #Corinthian columns with #Ionic capitals. Inspired by Italian architecture, circular steps lead up to the domed portico to start a theme for the #ChurchExterior that surrounds the church, featuring columns capped with pilasters & a decorative balustrade with vases on top.

4.12 PM, 25 July 2023

#StMaryLeStrand adorns the culturally rich #StrandAldwych area, beckoning all to admire its captivating #Baroque #Architecture. Dare to step inside & unlock the #ArchitecturalGem within its #BaroqueInterior & #ChurchExterior. Loaded with history, beauty & magnificent detail, the church invites you to open your eyes & allow yourself to be visually immersed.

4.24 PM, 25 July 2023

#JewelintheStrand Architect #JamesGibbs is one of Britain's most influential architects his work spans the #EnglishBaroque & #GeorgianArchitecture movements. Born into the catholic religion in 1682, Aberdeen, Scotland, he trained in Rome under the #Baroque Master #CarloFontana & upon his return to England, he was heavily influenced by Sir #ChristopherWren #StMaryLeStrand

In Collection: #StMaryLeStrand Untold

4.17 PM, 25 July 2023

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Following the death of his parents #JamesGibbs travelled through Europe & in 1703, registered as a student at #TheScotsCollege in Rome; a seminary into the priesthood for the dioceses of the Roman Catholic Church in Scotland. But he had second thoughts & by the end of 1704 he was studying Architecture & moved to London in November 1708. #StMaryLeStrand #JewelintheStrand

In Collection: #StMaryLeStrand Untold

4.16 PM, 25 July 2023

Architect #JamesGibbs took inspiration for the #ChurchExterior from #Michelangelo & the church #SantaMariaDellaPace by #PietrodaCortona. Upon the death of #QueenAnne, #JamesGibbs was controversially forced to add a #Steeple in the style of Sir #ChristopherWren to #StMaryLeStrand in 1717, using stone intended for the construction of a monument to commemorate the late #QueenAnne.

4.14 PM, 25 July 2023

#StMaryLeStrand was #JamesGibbs 1st major Architectural project after his return from Italy. Other important works include #StMartinInTheFields at #TrafalgarSquare, the cylindrical Dome’d #RadcliffeCamera at #OxfordUniversity, & #SenateHouse at #CambridgeUniversity. Gibbs never married, he died in his London house & was buried in #StMaryleboneParishChurch 1754 #JewelintheStrand

In Collection: #StMaryLeStrand Untold

4.07 PM, 25 July 2023

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