Highgate is a high-class community packed between huge parks in the borough of Haringey. Its tall altitude gives panoramic views over Hampstead Heath and London. The area attracts affluent residents, who prefer this leafy part of London that still has elements of its original village atmosphere that is fully equipped as a true London home.
Highgates' name originates from the tollgate at the top of the hill. Highgate was part of the Bishops of London's Hornsey Estate and was used predominantly as hunting grounds. During 13th century a small village had developed, and by the 14th century, the first road over Highgate Hill was constructed, along with the tollgate. Highgate School was set up in 1565 by Sir Roger Cholmley.
In 1832, St Michael's Church, London's highest church, was built on Highgate Hill to accommodate the community's growing population. Later Highgate Cemetery was laid. This was Highgate’s most famous landmark, and was a popular burial site for the wealthy residents of the Victorian era and was the resting place of Karl Marx. In the middle of the twentieth century, the finances were low and the gates were locked, this resulted in the cemetery becoming vandalised and destroyed. A group was formed in the 1970’s who called themselves the friends of the Highgate Cemetery, who rescued the cemetery and have restored it to its former glory.
The area has enjoyed growing popularity with wealthy and influential figures since the 16th Century as a healthy retreat from the pressures of city life and worsening smog. Today it is still as ever popular.
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