In this exploration, we uncover ten fascinating facts that shed light on the medieval legacy of London Bridge.
The first recorded London Bridge, constructed by the Romans in the 1st century AD, was made of wood. This early structure served not only as a crossing over the Thames but also as a hub of commerce and activity.
In the 12th century, the wooden bridge was replaced by a sturdier stone version. Completed in 1209, this medieval London Bridge featured 19 arches and a chapel dedicated to St. Thomas Becket. Its construction marked a significant engineering achievement of the time.
A unique feature of medieval London Bridge was the presence of houses and shops along its length. These structures, leaning outwards over the river, created a bustling thoroughfare and a vibrant marketplace atop the bridge.
The bridge had a notorious reputation as the site of the Traitor’s Gate, a grisly display of heads on spikes. Traitors’ heads were impaled on pikes and exhibited as a deterrent to potential wrongdoers, showcasing the harsh justice of medieval times.
At the midpoint of the bridge stood an Eleanor Cross, erected in memory of Queen Eleanor of Castile. The cross marked the beginning of the funeral procession route to Westminster Abbey for queens and occasionally kings.
In 1212, a catastrophic fire consumed much of medieval London, including parts of London Bridge. The fire reportedly began in Southwark and spread rapidly, destroying buildings on the bridge and reshaping its appearance.
The practice of displaying heads on London Bridge continued for centuries. Notable heads included those of William Wallace in 1305 and Thomas More in 1535, contributing to the bridge’s grim reputation.
Over the centuries, London Bridge underwent several reconstructions and renovations. Each iteration aimed to enhance the bridge’s strength and accommodate the growing demands of the city. The medieval stone bridge eventually gave way to more modern designs.
In addition to the chapel dedicated to St. Thomas Becket, medieval London Bridge featured several other chapels along its span. These places of worship served both spiritual and practical purposes for travelers and locals alike.
The medieval London Bridge endured for over 600 years until it was dismantled in 1831. The dismantling marked the end of an era, making way for a more modern and functional bridge. Today, its legacy lives on in historical accounts and depictions.
The medieval history of London Bridge unfolds as a captivating tale of resilience, architectural innovation, and the gritty realities of medieval life.
From its humble wooden origins to the imposing stone structure adorned with houses and shops, London Bridge played a central role in the daily life and dramas of medieval London.
As we stand on its modern incarnation today, the echoes of its medieval past continue to resonate, inviting us to delve deeper into the annals of history.