Statue of Oliver Cromwell, Bronze statue at Parliament Square, Westminster, United Kingdom
The Statue of Oliver Cromwell is a bronze monument on a limestone base at Parliament Square in Westminster, United Kingdom. The figure holds a sword in one hand and a Bible in the other, while a bronze lion rests at its feet.
The monument was erected in 1899 after lengthy political discussions about its appropriateness, as Cromwell had both admirers and critics. He governed England as Lord Protector following the overthrow of King Charles I in 1649.
The name Cromwell recalls the abolition of the monarchy and the formation of a republic in the mid-1600s. His position facing Parliament underscores his leadership of the parliamentary forces against the crown.
The monument stands freely accessible on the square in front of the parliament building and can be viewed from outside at any time. The pedestal rises well above street level, so details are clearly visible from close range.
The Bible in the figure's hand bears the year 1641, marking the start of conflicts between king and parliament. The lion at the base lies with ears laid back, symbolizing watchfulness.
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