London Oratory, South Kensington

The London Oratory in South Kensington is actually called the Oratory of St. Philip Neri. The Oratory is located on Brompton Street. Building on the structure began in 1878, but was not completed until 1896. Boasting some breathtaking architectural features including a Baroque dome and an impressive Nave which is only dwarfed by Westminster Abbey and York Minster. The obvious Italian influence on the building is deliberate as it is the home to the Catholic Oratorian Order- started by Philip Neri. The task of designing the building was given to unproven architect Herbert Gribble- who was only 28 when construction began. Gribble wanted to show Italian architecture to those who would otherwise not have the opportunity to see it. Gribble died before the building was complete and the breathtaking interior of the Oratory owes more to twentieth century design than he had intended. The interior of the dome is decorated with mosaics by Comandatore Formilli. Though a relatively young building the London Oratory boasts some classic features. The twelve apostles seen in the Nave were carved in 1680 for the Cathedral in Siena. The alter also dates back to the 17th century. The London Oratory is easily accessed via Kensington Underground Station.