Demographics
With
increasing industrialisation,
population grew rapidly throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, becoming
the most populated city in the world for a period in the late 19th century.
Some 7,420,600 people were estimated to live in
4,697 people per square kilometre.
It has
historically been known as one of the most ethnically diverse cities in the
world, and this continues in the modern day, with more than 300 languages
spoken and 50 non-indigenous communities with a population of more than 10,000
living in
In the 2001 census, it was shown that 40% of
non-British, with 29% classifying themselves as "non-white".
In
terms of religion,
is historically dominated by Christianity, and consequently has a large number
of churches, particularly in the City. The famous
Cathedral in the City and Southwark Cathedral south of the river are Anglican
administrative centres, whilst important national and royal ceremonies are
shared between
and Westminster Abbey. The Abbey is not to be confused with nearby Westminster
Cathedral, a relatively recent edifice which is the largest Roman Catholic
cathedral in
Despite this
dominance,
is also home to sizeable Muslim, Hindu and Jewish communities. Many Muslims
live in Tower Hamlets and Newham; the most important Muslim edifice is London
Central Mosque on the edge of Regent's Park. A large Hindu community exists in
Southall, West London, and has constructed the largest Hindu temple in Europe,
live in
communities in Stamford Hill and Golders Green
