The High Altar and Baldacchino

Overview

The High Altar and Baldacchino stand as a magnificent focal point within the iconic St. Paul’s Cathedral in London, United Kingdom. This grand architectural ensemble, situated at the eastern end of the cathedral, is not only a central element for worship but also a poignant memorial to those who sacrificed their lives in the World Wars. Its presence commands attention, drawing the eye upward and eastward, guiding visitors toward the spiritual heart of this historic Anglican landmark.

History & Cultural Background

The concept of a baldacchino, a ceremonial canopy over an altar, dates back to ancient times, used to signify reverence and honor for significant individuals or sacred spaces. In churches, it serves to distinguish the altar's sacredness and focus the architectural space.

Sir Christopher Wren, the visionary architect of St. Paul's Cathedral after the Great Fire of London in 1666, originally conceived of a baldacchino for his new masterpiece. However, his initial designs were deemed too elaborate by the ecclesiastical authorities of the time, leading to a simpler, more modest altar in the newly consecrated cathedral. For many years, a simple wooden table served as the altar.

It wasn't until 1888 that a more ornate structure was introduced: a large, carved altar flanked by a monumental marble reredos, designed by Thomas Garner and Bodley. This Victorian-era addition significantly altered the cathedral's east end. However, tragedy struck during the Second World War when the 1888 reredos and the surrounding chancel were severely damaged by a bomb in October 1940.

Following the devastation, a new opportunity arose to revisit Wren's original spirit. The current High Altar and Baldacchino were installed in 1958. Designed by Stephen Dykes Bower and Godfrey Allen, the new design finally incorporated the majestic canopy Wren had envisioned centuries earlier, fulfilling a long-held aspiration for the cathedral's spiritual centrepiece.

What Makes It Special

The High Altar and Baldacchino are special for several profound reasons. Firstly, the baldacchino itself is a towering structure, crowned by a gilded figure of Christ in blessing, majestically drawing the gaze upwards. It features four distinctive spiral columns, contributing to its baroque grandeur and echoing similar iconic structures in major basilicas worldwide. The base of the altar is a formidable four-tonne slab of Italian marble, underscoring its permanence and significance.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the ensemble carries deep historical and commemorative meaning. It serves as a powerful memorial from the British people, dedicated to the more than 335,000 members of the Commonwealth who lost their lives in the First and Second World Wars. This dual function as a place of worship and a war memorial imbues it with immense emotional weight and cultural importance. The craftsmanship involved in its creation, from the intricate carving of the columns to the delicate gilding of the figure of Christ, speaks volumes about the dedication to honoring both faith and sacrifice.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

A fascinating detail lies in the enormous carved candlesticks that flank the High Altar. These are copies of a pair originally commissioned by Cardinal Wolsey in the 16th century for his own burial casket. However, fate intervened. Cardinal Wolsey fell out of favor with King Henry VIII, who promptly confiscated the candlesticks. Later, during the 17th century, Oliver Cromwell, a key figure in the English Civil War and Lord Protector, sold the finished candlesticks to a Belgian cathedral. The copies at St. Paul's serve as a delightful echo of this dramatic historical saga.

Another interesting aspect is how the current baldacchino, while drawing inspiration from Wren's concepts, was a post-WWII addition. Wren's original model, which included a design for a canopy, was considered too flamboyant by the simpler Anglican tastes of his era, which preferred a less ornate setting for the altar. The destruction caused by the 1940 bombing paradoxically provided the opportunity for Wren's grander vision for the altar's canopy to finally materialize, centuries after his time. This blend of historical aspiration and modern restoration gives the structure a unique narrative.

Visitor Perspective

For visitors to St. Paul's Cathedral, approaching the High Altar and Baldacchino is an awe-inspiring experience. The sheer scale and intricate detail of the structure draw the eye, creating a sense of wonder and reverence. The gold accents gleam in the cathedral's light, and the elaborate carvings invite closer inspection. Standing before it, one can feel the layers of history and meaning, from the echoes of Wren's original vision to the solemn remembrance of war heroes. It's a space that encourages quiet contemplation, offering a moment to reflect on faith, history, and the profound human stories encapsulated within the cathedral's walls. The Baldacchino serves not just as an architectural marvel, but as a spiritual compass, guiding the gaze and the spirit towards the sacred.