The Great Fire of London erupted on September 4, 1666, devastating vast portions of the city. Beginning in a bakery on Pudding Lane owned by Thomas Farriner, the fire quickly spread due to the wooden construction of the buildings, which were closely packed together. With a strong wind at their backs, the flames became nearly unstoppable, engulfing homes and businesses alike. The chaos unfolded as residents attempted to escape, creating a hellish scene of panic and destruction.

As the fire raged, notable landmarks faced imminent danger. The iconic St. Paul's Cathedral, designed by Christopher Wren, was under threat, symbolizing the broader devastation of the city's architectural heritage. The fire lasted for four days, ultimately consuming over 13,000 houses, 87 churches, and numerous businesses. It is estimated that around 70,000 of the city's 80,000 residents lost their homes. The total area affected was around 436 acres, leading to an enormous loss of property and a complete rethinking of future urban planning.

In the aftermath, the city faced not only the physical ramifications but also socio-political challenges. The King, Charles II, took an active role in rebuilding efforts, commissioning new designs and implementing regulations that fostered fire safety. This marked a turning point in London's urban development. The great fire forced changes in building codes, promoting the construction of brick and stone buildings over timber, which would guide the city's architectural ethos for generations to come. Efforts for disaster recovery and prevention were also initiated, paving the way for more organized urban governance in England.