Journey to Trafalgar Square: London’s Icon of History and Culture
Trafalgar Square, designed by John Nash in the 1820s, is central to modern London. Tourists visit at various hours of the day to take photos in front of Nelson’s Column, see the statues of George IV, Henry Havelock, and Sir Charles James Napier, and enjoy the National Gallery’s magnificent facade. Trafalgar Square hosts marches, demonstrations, and parades, as well as the annual New Year’s Eve celebration where tens of thousands of Londoners gather.
Historical Background of Trafalgar Square
Trafalgar Square, dedicated to the Battle of Trafalgar (1805), was renovated in 1845 by architect Charles Barry, who redesigned parts designed by John Nash 20 years before. For many years, the square was abandoned, plagued by traffic, and governed by pigeons that swooped down on anyone holding something tasty. However, it has always served as a gathering place for political demonstrations and opposition.
The Revival and Modernization of Trafalgar Square
Former Mayor Ken Livingstone’s efforts since 2000 have resurrected Trafalgar Square, putting the difficult decades behind it. The rehabilitation intervention was built around improving the hygienic conditions of the area, which resulted in the removal of the birds and a prohibition on feeding them. After removing the “bird mice,” as pigeons are known in London, the city administration started implementing Jonh Nash’s urban planning vision for the plaza, which he envisioned about two centuries ago. Car traffic has been stopped on the north side in front of the National Gallery (1), creating a new pedestrian area. The art gallery has undergone extensive renovations, resulting in the acceptance of a new calendar of events that includes conferences, cultural events, and exhibitions that will keep the area lively throughout the week.
Exploring Trafalgar Square: Monuments and Attractions
Walking through Trafalgar Square, thanks to the pedestrianization of North Terrace, allows you to appreciate not only the breadth and vastness of this magnificent urban space, but also the beauty of the buildings that overlook it, such as the National Gallery, the National Portrait Gallery, and the church of St. Martin-in-the-Field.
Nelson’s Column and Other Statues
Since 1843, the center has been dominated by Nelson’s Column, a 46-meter-high granite column with a statue of Admiral Nelson on top. Sir Edwin Landseer’s bronze lions and granite fountains were erected in 1845 and 1867. The Admiralty Arch at the top of the plaza leads to the ceremonial thoroughfare, Pall Mall, which runs south-west to Buckingham Palace. To the west, you can view Canada House, a stunning edifice erected in 1827 by Robert Smirke. The area also features an equestrian statue of Charles I from the 1630s and a plaque indicating the location of Edward I’s Eleanor Cross, London’s official center.
Visiting the National Portrait Gallery
Trafalgar Square’s main attraction is the National Portrait Gallery, which showcases a wide range of artworks, including oil paintings of royalty and pictures of football stars. The oldest works, including portraits of Tudor and Stuart rulers and notables, are located on the second floor. The same floor also houses the eighteenth-century collection, featuring Georgian writers and artists, as well as a room dedicated to the Kit-Cat Club of Whig intellectuals, including Congreve and Dryden. The first level honors Victorians including Dickens, Darwin, and Brunel.
St. Martin-in-the-Fields: A Blend of Classic and Baroque
The church of St. Martin-in-the-Fields constructed by James Gibbs in 1726, combines classical and baroque elements and offers a stunning view of the square. In 2007, the church underwent a £36 million lottery restoration, which included the addition of a new pavilion and entrance hall, as well as work on the back and the creation of shelter spaces for the homeless, who rely on the parish for assistance. The bright interiors have been fully refurbished, removing the Victorian embellishments and adding a contentious altar over which a stylized cross looks to be drawn on water.
Practical Information for Visiting Trafalgar Square
The National Gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 18 p.m., Thursday through Tuesday, and 10 a.m. to 21 p. The permanent exhibition is free to enter, however temporary shows have variable admission fees. To reach the tunnel by tube, stop at Charing Cross.
The National Portrait Gallery is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., except on Thursdays and Fridays, when visiting hours are extended until 9 p.m. The gallery is free to enter, however temporary shows may need an entrance fee. The closest tube stations are Charing Cross and Leicester Square.
St. Martin-in-the-Fields is open daily from 8 a.m. to 6.30 p.m., while low-relief tracing is available Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 18 p.m. and Sundays from 12 a.m. to 18 p.m. The church is free to enter, however tracing the funerary bas-reliefs and attending concerts require advance booking by contacting 7766 1100 or 7930 9306.
