The Vaults, Waterloo¶
# The Vaults
Introduction¶
The Vaults are a network of underground tunnels and chambers beneath the City of London in England. They were built during the 18th century as part of a larger project to build the Royal Exchange, a major financial hub. The Vaults stretch for over 2 miles (3.2 km) across the city, providing a secure space for the storage of valuable goods.
Key Facts¶
- Duration: Construction began in 1749 and continued until 1760.
- Purpose: Originally designed to store gold and silver bullion, later used as safe-havens for other valuable items such as jewels, coins, and even the occasional ship's cargo.
- Location: The Vaults are situated beneath the City of London, near St Paul's Cathedral and the Tower of London.
Historical Context¶
The construction of the Vaults was part of a larger effort to revitalize London during the 18th century. As the city grew in importance as a financial center, it became necessary to create new infrastructure to support its growing trade and commerce. The Royal Exchange project was one such initiative, aiming to establish London as a major financial hub.
Significant Contributions¶
- Storage of valuable goods: The Vaults played a crucial role in storing gold, silver, and other precious items until the 19th century.
- Early examples of urban planning: The Vaults demonstrate innovative solutions for urban development, showcasing how a complex network could be built beneath an existing cityscape.
Notable Attractions¶
Royal Exchange¶
The Royal Exchange is one of the oldest buildings in London, dating back to the early 18th century. Although now largely destroyed and rebuilt several times, it remains a significant historical landmark and architectural example.
St Paul's Cathedral¶
St Paul's Cathedral has been the site for various underground structures over the centuries. The vaults beneath the cathedral have been used as a safe-haven during times of war or political unrest, earning them the nickname "the most secure place in London".
The Vaults' Underground Chamber¶
A unique feature of the Vaults is their large underground chamber, which can hold up to 1 million liters of water. This space was originally designed for storing valuable goods, but its use has largely been replaced by modern storage facilities.
Additional Information¶
- In the late 19th century, the Royal Exchange underwent a major renovation that destroyed many of the original vaults.
- The site where the Vaults once
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