The Christ Church Newgate was originally built by the Franciscans, who having settled in the poor area decided to build a grand place of worship. They started the building in 1306, and at over 300 feet long it was one of the largest in Britain at the time. Unfortunately, the original church was destroyed during the Great Fire, and was rebuilt in a less grand design by Wren. However, this church was also damaged during the Second World War, and the gutted building with its imposing steeple now remains as a garden.