In three separate sessions Ian will explore the heart of the City of London:-
The Medieval Guildhall - a London nerve centre for 2,000 years
In the centre of the City of London stands its ancient headquarters, the medieval Guildhall. The present building dates from 1411 and stands on the site of London’s Roman amphitheatre. This session explores the fascinating history of the Guildhall exterior and interior.
Romans and Romantics – The Guildhall Art Gallery, one of the country’s real hidden gems
The City of London Corporation has been commissioning and acquiring art for nearly 350 years and now owns a vast and diverse collection. This lecture explores the outstanding display of works in the Guildhall Art Gallery.
An armchair stroll around the Square Mile
Within a short walk of the Guildhall and St Paul’s Cathedral is a treasure trove of wonderful buildings and public art. This talk starts with a look at the institutions that are the backbone of the City of London – including the Bank of England, Lloyds, the Stock Exchange, and the City Livery Companies. Then we will dive into medieval alleyways to explore hidden churches and gardens and finish with a peek at some of the City’s gleaming new skyscrapers.
Ian Swankie is a Londoner with a passion for art and architecture. He is an accredited Arts Society lecturer, an official guide at Tate Modern, Tate Britain, Guildhall Art Gallery and St Paul’s Cathedral, and gives tours at each venue. He is also a qualified and active freelance London guide.
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