The square's four bronze lions were cast using metal recovered from the cannons of French and Spanish ships defeated at the Battle of Trafalgar.
The central 'Fourth Plinth' is reserved for a rotating series of contemporary art commissions rather than traditional historical figures.
The square occupies the site of the former King's Mews, which housed the royal stables until the 1830s.
The two granite fountains were rebuilt in 1939 to replace the original 1845 designs, which suffered from poor water pressure.
The stones used for Nelson's Column were transported from the quarries of Dartmoor in Devon.
The square is traditionally the site of London's official Christmas tree, an annual gift from the people of Oslo, Norway, since 1947.
Underneath the square is a small police station housed within a hollowed-out lamp post, once used to monitor protests.
The central statue of Nelson faces south toward the Admiralty Arch and the distant sea, symbolizing his naval command.
Trafalgar Square is a prominent public space in London designed by John Nash to commemorate the British naval victory at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. The square is anchored by the 169-foot Nelson's Column, which features a statue of Admiral Horatio Nelson at its peak. Four massive bronze lions, sculpted by Sir Edwin Landseer, guard the base of the monument. Two large fountains designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens flank the central column and are illuminated by LED lights at night. The square serves as a central hub for public gatherings, political demonstrations, and cultural events. The National Gallery forms the square's northern boundary, elevated above the main pedestrian area. St Martin-in-the-Fields church is located at the northeast corner of the site.
At the base of the fountains looking north toward the National Gallery.
Visit the steps of the National Gallery for an elevated vantage point of the entire square.
Check the official city website for scheduled public protests or demonstrations if you prefer a quieter visit.
Cross through the Admiralty Arch to head down The Mall toward Buckingham Palace.
Feeding the pigeons is strictly prohibited and carries fines, as they are considered a nuisance.
