The Grand at Trafalgar Square

Trafalgar Square is recognizable by the 56-meter-high Nelson's Column. In 1805, Admiral Nelson inflicted a crushing defeat on the united Spanish and French fleets off Cape Trafalgar. From that moment on, the British Empire ruled the world's seas for a century. Lord Nelson himself lost his life in the naval battle, and his body was transported back to the homeland in a cask of rum. In honor of the fallen sea hero, architects John Nash and Charles Barry designed the expansive square between 1830 and 1850. In 1842, the statue of the maritime strategist was hoisted atop the tall column. Four reliefs on the pedestal illustrate the naval battles fought by the admiral. The four mighty bronze lions guarding Lord Nelson were designed by court painter Sir Edward Lanseer in 1867, and the splashing fountain ultimately took shape in 1939 thanks to architect Edwin Lutyens. Traditionally, Londoners welcome the new year from Trafalgar Square. From his high column, Lord Nelson looks south towards Whitehall, a street lined with ministries on both sides.

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