Aviva is a multiline insurer that is listed on the London Stock Exchange. The company traces its roots back to the 17th century with the establishment of Hand-in-Hand. After the Great Fire of London, this mutual was formed to provide protection against fires. Hand-in-Hand was then acquired by Commercial Union in 1905. Over the years, Hand-in-Hand insured London landmarks such as London Bridge, the British Museum, and the Palace in Lambeth. The life insurance part of Aviva began in the early part of the 18th century with the establishment of Amicable, again a mutual society but this time to protect widows and children against the loss of life.
