Abbildung der statt London ...

Merian's famous and dramatic panoramic view of the Great Fire of London in 1666. An eye-witness account, taken from his position in Southwark and extending from Whitehall to the Tower of London.

What was a small fire that started just after midnight on the 2nd September 1666 at the bakery of Thomas Farriner in Pudding Lane, swept west across the City causing devastation inside the Roman walls.

The fire spread as far as Fleet Street and continued to rage for three days in the City of London, destroying over 13,000 houses, more than 80 churches, and vital national institutions such as the Royal Exchange, Custom House and St Paul’s Cathedral. The damage caused by the fire is estimated to have cost approximately an excruciating £1.7 billion in today’s money.

Below the panorama there is a key to identify the 20 landmarks across the city.

Strong impression copper-engraving.