Harold Hussey's 1962 painting shows the Barbican site just before the
Barbican arts complex and housing estate was built. It is seen from the
east side at the junction of Beech Street and Aldersgate Street.
Cripplegate
The Barbican Estate is located within an important historical area of
London. The remains of the old Roman London Wall are preserved within the
grounds. The Church of St Giles Cripplegate can be seen in the centre of
the painting. Originally built in the 11th century, the church burnt down
in the mid-16th century. However, in 1663-5 it was rebuilt. Remarkably it
survived the Great Fire of London in 1666.
Regeneration of the Barbican
During the Second World War, the Barbican area was destroyed by bombing.
It was cleared in order to build a completely new development. The work
included the building of the Museum of London, which opened in 1976.
