Statue of James II, Bronze royal statue in Trafalgar Square, United Kingdom.
Description
The Statue of James II stands in Trafalgar Square, depicting the monarch in classical Roman armor and a laurel wreath. The bronze work is positioned in the garden area in front of the National Gallery with its formal styling.
History
The monument was created in 1686 by Grinling Gibbons' workshop and survived the Glorious Revolution of 1688 when the king lost his throne. Despite the turbulent political events of that time, the work remained and was relocated in later centuries.
Culture
The inscription at the base displays James II's royal titles in Latin, reflecting his rule over multiple kingdoms. You can read this formal language while walking around the monument.
Practical
The monument sits in the garden area of Trafalgar Square, easily visible to visitors of the National Gallery across the way. Access is straightforward since the statue is in public space and can be viewed at any time without restrictions.
Did you know?
The monument has been moved several times across London, starting from Whitehall Palace through Gwydyr House and the Admiralty building. It only reached its current location in 1947, after spending centuries at various important sites.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (City of Westminster).
Trafalgar Square
82 m
National Gallery
65 m
Nelson's Column
111 m
National Portrait Gallery
125 m
Trafalgar Square Christmas tree
70 m
Fourth Plinth
38 m
Hahn/Cock
44 m
Canada House
88 m
Equestrian statue of George IV
99 m
Statue of Charles James Napier
94 m
Oceanic House
96 m
Canadian Pacific Building
123 m
Statue of Admiral Lord Nelson
103 m
Sainsbury Wing
58 m
Statue of George Washington
103 m
Jellicoe Memorial Fountain
69 m
Bust of Andrew Cunningham, 1st Viscount Cunningham of Hyndhope
73 m
Equestrian statue of George III
129 m
Fountains and terrace walls with lampstandards, steps and stone bollards enclosing the Square
123 m
Bust of David Beatty, 1st Earl Beatty
91 m
Bust of John Jellicoe, 1st Earl Jellicoe
86 m
Beatty Memorial Fountain
100 m
5, Suffolk Street Sw1
108 m
K6 Telephone Kiosk
46 m
3-13, Whitcomb Street Wc2
92 m
6 1/2 And 7, Suffolk Street Sw1
119 m
6, Suffolk Street Sw1
110 m
1, Charing Cross Road Wc2
127 mDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes