What did London smell like before the Great Fire of London?

The smell before the Great Fire of London is difficult to determine due to the lack of extensive documentation. However, historical accounts and anecdotal descriptions provide some insights into the scents that permeated the city. Here are some factors that likely contributed to the smells of London before the fire:

1. Sewage: The sewage system in pre-fire London was inadequate and often overwhelmed. This resulted in overflowing cesspits, gutters filled with waste, and open sewers that emitted foul odors.

2. Open Fires and Smoke: London was a bustling city with many open fireplaces used for cooking and heating. The burning of wood and coal produced large amounts of smoke, contributing to a smoky atmosphere.

3. Animals and Livestock: London had a significant population of animals, including horses, cattle, pigs, and sheep, which were kept in close proximity to human dwellings. The presence of animal waste and the smell of livestock would have been noticeable.

4. Tanneries and Leatherworking: The city had a thriving leatherworking industry, and tanneries were known to release unpleasant odors from the processes involved in treating animal hides.

5. Industrial Activities: London was a major center for various industries, including metalworking, brewing, and textile production. These activities generated distinct scents associated with the respective processes.

6. Open Markets: Markets were abundant in London, selling a wide range of goods, including fish, meat, vegetables, and spices. The smells of these goods, both fresh and decaying, would have mingled in the air.

7. Lack of Sanitation Practices: Personal hygiene and sanitation practices were not as developed as they are today. This led to a general lack of cleanliness in public spaces, contributing to unpleasant smells.

8. Herbal Remedies and Medicines: Many apothecaries and herbalists operated in London, using a variety of herbs and spices for medicinal purposes. These establishments would have emitted distinct aromas associated with herbs, spices, and herbal remedies.

It's worth noting that the smells experienced in pre-fire London would have varied depending on the location, time of day, season, and prevailing weather conditions. The descriptions above provide a glimpse into the factors that likely shaped the olfactory landscape of London before the Great Fire of 1666.