The many historic churches of London's ancient 'square mile' are rich in heraldry. Many boast a royal coat of arms, and a Lord Mayor's sword rest or two, as well as finely carved family monuments on the walls and even detailed ledger stones on the floor.

In this beginner's guide to a fascinating and complex subject, Blue Badge Guide and Friend of the City Churches Rowan Freeland looks at the basics of heraldry with particular reference to the City of London and its churches.

A modest donation for this talk goes toward the work of the Friends of the City Churches, an architectural heritage charity devoted to supporting the historic churches of London's ancient Square Mile. For more information, please visit our Web site at http://www.london-city-churches.org.uk.

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