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Church Of The Holy Innocents Hammersmith


Church Of The Holy Innocents Hammersmith

Alright, gather 'round, folks. I've got a tale to tell you about a little church in Hammersmith that's anything but little in the 'surprise factor' department. We're talking about the Church of the Holy Innocents, and trust me, it's not your average Sunday service kinda place.

First things first, let's talk location.

Now, you might think that a church named after the Holy Innocents would be tucked away in some quaint, peaceful corner of Hammersmith. But no, that would be too easy. This one's right there, smack bang in the middle of the bustling King Street, like the quiet, holy cousin at a rave.

Now, let's dive into the architecture. Brace yourselves.

Imagine, if you will, a building that looks like it's been through a time-traveling blender. You've got your Gothic arches, your Victorian tower, and then, bam, a 1960s-style entrance that seems to be saying, "Hey, I'm not just a pretty face, I've got a modern soul too." It's like the architectural equivalent of a mullet - all business in the front, party in the back.

And the interior? Well, it's a bit like stepping into a holy kaleidoscope.

We're talking stained glass that's been around since the 1800s, but with a twist. There's a whole wall dedicated to the Holy Innocents themselves, depicted as cute little cherubs. It's like the world's most heavenly kindergarten class photo. And the best part? The cherubs are blue. Yes, you heard it here first, folks. Blue cherubs. I mean, who said the Church wasn't open to a bit of artistic license?

But wait, there's more. Let's talk about the organ.

Now, I've heard some impressive organs in my time, but this one takes the cake. It's a three-manual organ, which is basically like having a musical keyboard with a built-in piano, harpsichord, and organ all rolled into one. It's like the musical equivalent of a Swiss Army knife. And get this, it's been played by the likes of Rachmaninoff, no big deal. I mean, if you're going to have a musical superstar play your organ, you might as well go big, right?

hammersmith_holy_innocents090118_87 « London Churches in photographs
hammersmith_holy_innocents090118_87 « London Churches in photographs

And finally, the pièce de résistance - the crypt.

Yep, you heard it right. This church has a crypt. Now, I'm not saying it's haunted or anything (although, who knows, maybe the Holy Innocents are having one heck of a rager down there), but it's certainly a chilling reminder of the church's history. It's like the church's very own secret basement club, and you're all invited. Just don't forget to RSVP.

So there you have it, folks. The Church of the Holy Innocents - Hammersmith's most surprising, most historic, and most downright interesting church. Next time you're in the neighborhood, do yourself a favor and pop in. Just don't be surprised if you find yourself humming a Rachmaninoff tune or two afterwards.

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