26 St John's Ln, London EC1M 4BU
St John's Gate
St John's Gate, in Clerkenwell, Middlesex, now within central London, is one of the few tangible remains from Clerkenwell's monastic past. It was built in 1504 by Prior Thomas Docwra as the south entrance to the inner precinct of Clerkenwell Priory, the English headquarters of the Knights of the Order of St John.
Location
About
St John's Gate Historical Landmark: A Must-Visit Attraction in London, England
London is a city that is steeped in history and culture, with countless landmarks and attractions that tell the story of its past. One such landmark that should be on every tourist's itinerary is St John's Gate, a historical site that has played a significant role in the city's history. Situated in the heart of Clerkenwell, a vibrant district in central London, St John's Gate is a testament to the city's rich heritage and is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in history, architecture, and culture.
History
St John's Gate dates back to the 16th century and was once the entrance to the Priory of the Order of St John, a religious order that was founded in Jerusalem during the Crusades. The Priory of the Order of St John was established in Clerkenwell in the early 12th century and was one of the most important religious institutions in the city. The gate was built in the 1500s as part of a grand rebuilding of the priory by the then Prior, Sir Thomas Docwra. It was designed in the Tudor style, with a grand archway and a turreted tower, and served as the main entrance to the priory for hundreds of years.
During the 16th and 17th centuries, St John's Gate played an important role in the religious and political life of the city. It was here that Queen Elizabeth I met the Knights of the Order of St John in 1588, and it was also the venue for the first performance of William Shakespeare's play, "Twelfth Night" in 1602. In the 18th century, the priory was dissolved and the gate became the headquarters of the newly formed St John Ambulance Association, a charity that provided first aid services to the public.
Architecture
St John's Gate is a stunning example of Tudor architecture and is one of the few surviving examples of its kind in London. The gate is built from red brick and features a grand archway, a turreted tower, and intricate carvings and decorations. The tower is topped with a weather vane in the shape of a St John's Cross, the symbol of the Order of St John. Visitors can admire the gate's impressive architecture from the street, or they can enter the courtyard to get a closer look.
Visitor Experience
Today, St John's Gate is open to visitors and is a popular tourist attraction in London. Visitors can explore the courtyard and see the grand archway and turreted tower up close. They can also visit the museum, which is located in the gatehouse and tells the story of the Order of St John and its role in the history of London. The museum features a collection of artifacts, including armor, weapons, and medical equipment, as well as interactive displays that allow visitors to learn more about the Order and its work.
In addition to the museum, St John's Gate is also home to the St John's Ambulance Brigade, a charity that provides first aid services to the public. Visitors can learn more about the charity's work and even sign up to become a volunteer.
Conclusion
St John's Gate is a historical landmark that is not to be missed when visiting London. Its stunning architecture, rich history, and cultural significance make it a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in learning more about the city's past. Whether you are a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique and interesting place to visit in London, St John's Gate is definitely worth a visit.
Gallery
Opening Hours
| Friday | 10 am–5 pm |
|---|---|
| Saturday | 10 am–5 pm |
| Sunday | Closed |
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | Closed |
| Wednesday | 10 am–5 pm |
| Thursday | 10 am–5 pm |