The Baroque Frauenkirche was built in 1743 on the site of an old wooden chapel and is a symbol of Dresden. It is remarkable for its unusual dome over twenty-six metres high, known as the "stone bell", which is one of the largest north of the Alps. It is a unique work of art that is often compared to Michelangelo's dome of St. Peter's in Rome. During World War II, the church was completely destroyed by bombing and fire. It was not until 1994 that extensive reconstruction began, using much of the surviving material. The work was based on historical photographs and was completed in 2005. The new gilded cross that adorns the church was forged in London as a gesture of reconciliation. The original damaged cross can be seen to the right of the church's new altar.