Guards Crimean War Memorial — Attraction in London

The Whitehall Statues: A Tribute to History and Sacrifice

Location: Whitehall, London

Whitehall in London is not just a hub of government activity but also a rich repository of historical monuments that pay tribute to the valor and sacrifice of individuals who shaped British history. Among these monuments are the Cenotaph and the Crimean War Memorial, featuring statues of Florence Nightingale and Sidney Herbert.

The Cenotaph Standing solemnly in the center of Whitehall, the Cenotaph is a poignant war memorial that commands reverence and respect. Designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens and unveiled in 1920, this simple yet powerful structure commemorates the British and Commonwealth military personnel who died in the two World Wars and later conflicts. The Cenotaph, meaning “empty tomb” in Greek, is draped with sculpted flags and inscribed with the words “The Glorious Dead.” Its annual Remembrance Sunday service is a significant event, drawing dignitaries and citizens alike to honor the fallen.

Florence Nightingale Statue Adjacent to the Cenotaph is the statue of Florence Nightingale, part of the Crimean War Memorial. Unveiled in 1915, this statue honors Nightingale’s pioneering work in nursing during the Crimean War, where her efforts significantly improved the sanitary conditions and care of wounded soldiers. Depicted with a lamp in her hand, Nightingale’s statue is a fitting tribute to the “Lady with the Lamp” and a symbol of compassion and dedication to medical care.

Sidney Herbert Statue The Crimean War Memorial also includes a statue of Sidney Herbert, 1st Baron Herbert of Lea, a key figure in the administration of the British Army during the Crimean War and a close collaborator with Nightingale. His efforts in military reform and support for Nightingale’s work are commemorated through this statue, providing a broader context to the era’s medical and military history.

Conclusion The statues in Whitehall are not just historical markers; they are enduring symbols of sacrifice, leadership, and humanitarianism. Visiting these monuments offers a deep dive into the pivotal moments of British history and the individuals whose contributions have left a lasting legacy. Whether you are a history enthusiast or a casual visitor, the Cenotaph and the Crimean War Memorial provide a contemplative space to reflect on the past and honor those who have shaped...

Amazing place. It was unveiled in 1861 and consisted of the statues of three Guardsmen, with a female allegorical figure referred to as Honour. It was cast in bronze, with components cast from cannons melted down that had been captured at the siege of Sevastopol.[3] The sculptor was John Bell.[4]

On the front, by the statues of the Guardsmen, are two plaques. The older one states:

The foundation stone of the Guards' Memorial was laid in the year of our lord 1861 by Margaret Johanna Bell.

The other plaque reads:

The Guards' Memorial was pulled down in the year of our lord 1914 and was re-erected 30 feet north in order to permit the erection of the Florence Nightingale and Sidney Herbert statues.

On the back facade of the monuments, facing the road up to Piccadilly is another plaque, a shield surrounded by foliage and mounted on guns. This reads:

To the memory of 2152 Officers, Non-Com. Officers and Privates of the BRIGADE OF GUARDS who fell during the war with Russia in 1854–56. Erected by their Comrades.

In 1914, the monument was moved northwards to make room for new statues of Florence Nightingale and Sidney Herbert who was Secretary at War during the Crimean War. It is only then that the allegorical figure was referred to as Victory. The sculpture of Nightingale was by Arthur George Walker,[5] and the sculpture of Herbert was by John...

Very good monument... if you know what you are looking at...

This is the type of monument which people are not usually putting in their plans when they are going to a city. When was the last time you heard somebody saying "Hey, I booked a ticket to London. I am going to see the Crimean War Memorial". You haven't, surely. BUT this is a great place to feel the history. LITERALLY! Probably my favourite combination of words is "Did you know?". Well, DID YOU KNOW that all the metal this monument is made from is taken from the Russian guns (from their ships) of the siege of Sevastopol? Think of it that way. If you touch them basically you are touching a piece of history. How cool is that?!? We are doing YouTube series and one of our goals is to show those curious details to the people that are literally passing next to them but they are not aware of. So if you are curious about the city then just search on YouTube for "Curious Pavel". And if you want to learn more about this monument then just add "Crimean war" in...