The 1666 Great Fire of London

The 1666 Great Fire of London was a devastating blaze that started on September 2nd in a bakery on Pudding Lane. Fueled by dry, wooden buildings and strong winds, the fire rapidly spread through the tightly packed medieval city, destroying about 13,200 houses and numerous landmarks, including St. Paul’s Cathedral. The fire burned for three days before being brought under control, leaving tens of thousands homeless. It prompted significant rebuilding efforts and led to new building regulations to prevent future fires. The event remains a pivotal moment in London's history, highlighting the importance of fire safety and urban planning.