Trafalgar Square

Trafalgar Square was built by the architect John Nash, who also designed Regent’s Park, as a tribute to Admiral Nelson’s victory in the bloody Battle of Trafalgar. This naval battle, which pitted the British fleet against the Franco-Spanish fleet in 1805, marked British supremacy on the seas and, above all, Napoleon’s defeat in his bid to conquer the United Kingdom. Admiral Horatio Nelson is therefore honoured in this square, adorning the top of the almost 45-metre-high column that stands behind you, guarded by the four lion statues surrounding it. The statues are said to have been made from the cast bronze of cannons from the French fleet… Quite symbolic, don’t you think? Opposite this statue is the famous National Gallery, which showcases more than 2,300 paintings created between the 13th and 19th centuries by some of the greatest artists of the era, all housed in an imposing building constructed in 1838. An absolute must for art lovers! Besides being an impressive site for its many historic buildings, Trafalgar Square is also a major venue for the many political and social events that take place in the Square. Londoners regularly gather here to express their views. It is undoubtedly a lively square, and a must-see in London!