St Dunstan in the East

Somewhere particularly spectacular at this time of year is St Dunstan in the East. Found in the Monument area of the city, this fascinating tenth century church ruin (with later additions by Christopher Wren) has evolved into a beautiful and unique green space. A must for Momijigari seekers (those who enjoy the beauty of autumn leaves), the flora here, set against the mossy ruins, is just stunning.

And what about its name who was St Dunstan? He was a very popular bishop from the 900s who was famed for having defeated the Devil. He is referenced in Dickens’ A Christmas Carol and a folk rhyme was written in his honour. He was canonised as the Patron Saint of armorers, goldsmiths, locksmiths and jewellers as he was a skilled metalworker. His feast day is 19 May.

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