The Great Fire of London was a devastating event that occurred in September 1666. It is estimated to have destroyed a significant portion of the city. In this article, we will explore how far the fire spread and the impact it had on London.
The Spark
The fire started in the early morning hours of September 2nd in a bakery on Pudding Lane, near London Bridge. The strong winds that day quickly fanned the flames, causing the fire to spread rapidly.
Uncontrolled Spread
The fire quickly engulfed nearby buildings, fueled by the close proximity of timber-framed houses and narrow streets. Within hours, it had reached the nearby Thames Street and began spreading westward.
Bold actions were taken to try and contain the fire, including demolishing buildings to create firebreaks. However, these efforts were often in vain as the fire continued to leap across gaps and spread further.
Devastating Reach
By the evening of September 3rd, less than 48 hours after it started, the fire had already consumed a large area of the city. It had spread as far north as Gresham Street and as far west as Temple Bar.
The destruction was immense. Countless homes, businesses, and landmarks were reduced to ashes. Iconic structures such as St. Paul’s Cathedral were also severely damaged.
An Unexpected Savior
The turning point came when strong winds shifted and pushed the flames towards areas that had recently been demolished by another disaster – the Great Plague of London. These cleared spaces acted as natural firebreaks and helped slow down the spread of the inferno.
End of the Fury
After four long days, the fire was finally brought under control on September 6th. However, it took several more days to fully extinguish all remaining hotspots.
The Aftermath
The Great Fire of London left an indelible mark on the city. Approximately 87 churches, 13,200 houses, and numerous public buildings were destroyed. The fire also had a profound impact on urban planning, leading to the implementation of new building regulations and wider streets.
In Conclusion
The Great Fire of London spread far and wide, ravaging a large portion of the city. Its destructive path forever changed London’s landscape and influenced architectural practices for years to come.