On 6 September 1666, after four relentless days of destruction, the Great Fire of London was finally extinguished, but not before it had ravaged vast parts of the city, including the iconic St Paul's Cathedral.
Starting in a bakery on Pudding Lane, the fire spread swiftly, consuming homes, churches, and landmarks in its path.
The narrow streets and timber structures fueled the blaze, making it impossible for firebreaks to halt its advance.
By the time the fire was brought under control, much of medieval London lay in ruins, leaving thousands homeless and the city on the brink of rebuilding from the ashes.