Trafalgar Square is the most famous public space in London. It is used for polical gatherings and is a centre for national celebration.

The Square commemorates the Battle of Trafalgar. A naval battle, fought in the Mediterranean in 1805, where Admiral Nelson defeated the combined French & Spanish fleet.

Admiral Nelson, who led the British fleet, was killed in the battle and became a national hero. In 1816 Parliament decided to erect a monument in his honour and a competition to design Trafalgar square were commissioned.

Nelson’s Column was completed in 1843. The column is 46 metres high and the statue of Nelson that stands at the top of the column is 5.5metres tall. The height of the column is said to reflect the height of the mainmast on Nelson’s flagship, HMS Victory.

The square also acts as a monument to other naval battles and important naval figures. Its famous 4th plinth remains unoccupied and is used for contemporary art installations.