More than 2 billion people around the world watched as Prince William and Catherine exchanged platinum rings this morning. I was one of them. What a beautiful wedding it was! As the cameras took us through the streets of London and finally to Buckingham palace, it brought back such wonderful memories of my first visit to London.
Back in 2004 I was also standing in front of the gates of Buckingham Palace. Not as a royal guest but as a tourist. Oh how different the world looks like through the eyes of a tourist! My blog today is not about Buckingham Palace but about the Statue in front of the palace: The Queen Victoria Memorial Statue.
I am sure you have seen it in many photographs taken of the wedding this morning. It is also a very popular spot to view the changing of the guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace. The monument is very interesting. Some people also refer to it as the white “wedding cake” monument.
It was designed by Sir Aston Webb to commemorate Queen Victoria (1819-1901). It was sculpted by Thomas Brock. Work began in 1903 but it was only unveiled in 1911 by King George V in the presence of the German Emperor Wilhelm II.
This impressive statue was carved out of 2,300 ton Carrara marble, bronze and granite and contains several statues. The statue of Queen Victoria faces the Mall. Others represent Justice, Truth and Charity. On top of the memorial is a golden statue of Victory with 2 seated figures. The statue is almost 25m high! This is the largest monument dedicated to a monarch in England. Queen Victoria was also the longest reigning monarch in the history of England.
Where: In front of Buckingham Palace in London, United Kingdom
When: April 2004
There is nothing as beautiful as walking down memory lane..today has been a wonderful one for most of us..and thank u Nelieta,for this one.
Thank you Alpana! It is a good feeling to walk down memory lane. For sure a wedding I will never forget and if I do make it back to London, then this statue will be visited again!
Nice…never been there yet..one day maybe..fish and chips..
Hi Alfandi, yes some of the pubs have very good fish and chips…with a beer!
Beautiful pictures! Would love to visit myself if I could bring myself to get on a plane! =) Have a wonderful weekend!Here's my moment…. http://really-wait-what.blogspot.com/2011/04/friday-moment-42911.html
Hi Jewell,glad you have enjoyed the photos! Hope you manage to get on that plane soon 🙂
What a treat the pictures were, Nelieta. These pictures bring me fond memories of my visit to London last summer.Glad.Joy always,Susan
Hi Susan, so happy that you have enjoyed the photos. London is such a lovely place to visit! So much to do and see. Cannot wait to write more about my adventures there :)Have a great weekend!
Lucky you, it's on my bucket list to visit London and see the Buckingham Palace. And oh it would be nice to see Prince William as well 😉
Hi Claire, yes with William now taken it leaves Harry 🙂 Anyway glad that London is in your bucket list. You will not be disappointed 🙂
Great images I have never been to england lol but I kind of like the BeatlesYour images make me want to visit.
Thanks Jim, I have so many great memories of my visit. Would love to go back again and revisit all these places but at my own time! Hope you get an opportunity to go there one day 🙂