Sitting atop the highest point in all of LondonThe Shard, a towering 300-meter-tall steel and glass behemoth designed by master architect Renzo Piano seemed to beckon, its pyramidal, razor-sharp silhouette slicing the skyline and tapering to an apex, left ‘open’ for practical and symbolic reasons. (Photo: Pixabay)There is no better way to explore London than on foot, for architectural marvels steeped in history abound every nook and corner. The site manifests as the historic north-eastern gateway to the City of London.*Disclaimer: This article has been contributed by Baikunth Nath Sinha, Sr GM – Architecture, VYOM.Leadenhall Market, one of the oldest markets in London dating back to the 14th century, is located in the historic centre of the City of London financial district.I alighted at the impressive Liverpool Street Station, following an hour and a half long train ride from Suffolk. Churches, palaces, castles and mansions, built over centuries, stand in stark contrast to modern glass-sheathed edifices, creating an indelible impression.

The mammoth skyscraper trumps everything in its vicinity and challenges many notions of China Wholesale Post Cap London being a mid-rise city that does not celebrate the skyscraper culture.Piercing the skyline in a stunning display of magnificence, the unmistakable dome of St Paul’s rose above the city, an exemplar of Neo-Palladian architecture, which had cemented its popularity in 18th century England.On the South Bank of the Thames stand the ruins of the Winchester Palace, the stronghold of the erstwhile bishops of Manchester. Sitting atop the highest point in all of London, the inside of the church is a visual spectacle, featuring intricate mosaics on the ceiling..Also Read: Heritage diaries: Exploring the world’s architecture capital – PragueLuckily, a friend residing in the city, an architect by profession, volunteered to be my guide. The Shard’s arrival has spurred overall growth in its neighbourhood, reviving the London Bridge area and drawing hordes of visitors.Countless other architectural wonders, both quaint and colossal find their place in London’s urban fabric. The feeling dissipated rapidly as the city engulfed us in its overwhelming drama. Punctuated by pediments and giant columns, the image of this regal building will remain etched in my memory for years to come.

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