Admiralty Arch, London

The grand tree-lined expanse of The Mall, often considered London's equivalent of a Parisian boulevard (though without the cafes), was designed in the early 20th century as a tribute to Queen Victoria and gracefully runs along the northern border of Saint James's Park. At the Trafalgar Square end of The Mall, you'll encounter the imposing Admiralty Arch, which, until recently, while at the opposite terminus stands the extravagant Victoria Memorial, a lavish 2300-tonne marble homage commissioned by Edward VII in honor of his mother.

Admiralty Arch is actually composed of five arches: two for pedestrians, two for vehicular traffic, and a central arch that is opened solely for state events. Until 2012, it served as a government building and even provided an alternative residence for the Prime Minister during the renovation of Downing Street. Presently, it is undergoing conversion into a luxury hotel and the site of a 拢150-million apartment, London's most opulent residence.

Keep an eye out for a peculiar bronze nose affixed to the inside wall of the right-hand traffic arch (when facing The Mall). This enigmatic nose was clandestinely placed there by a mischievous artist in 1997 and has since been allowed to remain. The precise reason for its presence remains a mystery, as does its symbolic significance. Some speculate that the nose pays homage to the Duke of Wellington, who was noted for his substantial nose, although concrete evidence is lacking. Nevertheless, this intriguing feature doesn't deter the Royal Horse Guards from their tradition of routinely rubbing the protrusion for good luck, a sign of their admiration for the Iron Duke.

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Sight Name: Admiralty Arch
Sight Location: London, England (See walking tours in London)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

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