Great Globe

The Great Globe is a Portland stone sculpture measuring 3 meters across that stands in Durlston Country Park on England's south coast. Its surface features detailed carvings showing continents and world geography, and the sphere rests on a platform carved into the rocky ground.

The globe was built at Greenwich in 1887 and then transported by sea to Swanage, where W.M. Hardy completed its installation. This maritime transport project was a remarkable undertaking for the time, requiring careful handling of the massive stone structure during its journey.

The stone plaques around the globe display quotations from English literature, Roman poetry, and Biblical texts alongside observations about the natural world. This blend of art and knowledge reflects how 19th-century thinking combined human culture with scientific understanding.

The globe is accessible during Durlston Country Park opening hours and sits in a location with good views over the coastline. Visitors should note that the area can be quite windy, so appropriate clothing is recommended for a comfortable visit.

The structure is built from 15 stone segments connected by granite dowels, creating an elegant geometric construction. This building technique allowed the makers to keep the massive sphere stable while preserving its smooth surfaces.