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Trafalgar Square

Introduction

Trafalgar Square is a large public square located in the heart of London, England, within the city's capital district. Established in 1836, it has become one of the most iconic and influential public spaces in Europe.

Key Facts

  • Name Origin: The square was named after Admiral Horatio Nelson (1758–1805), a British naval officer who led the Battle of Trafalgar during the Napoleonic Wars.
  • Size: Approximately 0.69 square miles (1.82 km²)
  • History: Construction began in 1836 and took nearly two years to complete
  • Incorporation into UNESCO World Heritage Site List: Recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1987, Trafalgar Square is considered one of the most iconic public spaces on the planet.

Historical Context

Trafalgar Square has a rich history that spans centuries. Initially, it was part of a large royal park called St James's Park, which also included Buckingham Palace and Green Park. However, in 1836, King William IV decided to create a new public square within this area as a tribute to Admiral Nelson.

The construction of the current Trafalgar Square began with the laying out of its four major axes – north-south and east-west lines. The design was intended to be monumental, reflecting Britain's role in maritime history and its dominance at sea. Construction took nearly two years to complete, and the square officially opened on April 21, 1838.

Significant Contributions

  • Public Art: Trafalgar Square is home to several iconic works of public art, including Nelson's Column, which commemorates Admiral Nelson.
  • Buckingham Palace: The adjacent palace serves as a symbol of British monarchy and tradition.
  • London Eye: In 2000, the London Eye was installed on the south bank of the Thames River. Originally intended to be built near Trafalgar Square for the 1992 Summer Olympics, it was later relocated in response to concerns over noise pollution.

Notable Attractions

  1. Trafalgar Square: The central and most iconic attraction, featuring Nelson's Column at its center.
  2. Nelson's Column: A massive bronze statue of Admiral Horatio Nelson, erected in 1840.
  3. National Gallery: Located near Trafalgar Square, it is one of

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  • Generation time: 2024-11-02 07:45:23
  • Keywords: Trafalgar Square, wiki, history, attractions, facts
  • URL: https://worldbestplaces.com/places/trafalgar_square