Wellington Arch
History
The Wellington Arch has a deep history that spans nearly 200 years and continues to stand today. Originally known as the Green Park Arch, the design process was started with architect Decimus Burton in 1824 as a gateway entrance to green park and an extended screen entrance into Hyde Park, which at the time was considered the unofficial "entrance to London"—following this, roughly two years into the design process government officials agreed that the arch should be more monumental, and serve as an entrance to the Buckingham Palace Grounds. A few years later, a government committee of roughly 80 members met and agreed to add the equestrian horse of the Duke of Wellington above the arch. This storied a lot of controversy from the citizens of England and the queen specifically. With Wellington making a clear stance that he would refuse the removal of the arch, the queen removed her arguments and allowed it to stand. Due to the amount of traffic that surrounded the arch, its location became highly inconvenient, and by 1885 the arch had been rebuilt in its present site where it stands today. Although it struck a lot of controversies, this arch adds to its uniqueness and rich historical tale of how one of the most beautiful arches in London was built and why it is located where it is today.
Historical Events at the Wellington Arch
Suffragette Protests
During the early 20th century, the Wellington Arch became one of the few sites where suffragette protests took place. These protests surrounded the equal rights movement and mainly focussing on women recieving the right to vote. The arch was known as a central point where marches would begin and move around the contral areas of London. Interesting enough, another large areas where these protests were held was outside Buckingham Palace and the marble arch.
The Duke Of Wellingtons Funeral
The Wellington Arch also played a huge role in honoring The Duke of Wellington in his funeral in November of 1852. Due to the Dukes incredibal efforts in defeating Napolean. His casket passed through the arch to honor him, and his herioc efforts for Britian.
Changing Of the Guard
Due to it's convienient location near buckingham palace, the Arch plays a role in the changing of the guard ceramony. Along with the multiple historic landmarks passed on the route of the ceramony, the Wellington arch is one of the final locations passed prior to arrival at Buckingham Palace.
Wellington Arch in the Media
Film
The Wellington Arch has been featured in various films because it is known as an architectural staple of London. The arch has been featured in "V for Vendetta", Sherlock Holmes: A Game Of Shadows, and many more films.
Televison
The Arch has also made many appearances in Television shows, including the spinoff of Sherlock Holmes "Sherlock". It has also been featured in "Doctor Who" episodes and "downtown Abbey."
Other
Other aspects of media that the arch has been apart of include literary works such as the James Bond novel "Thunderball" being described during a Bond-Like car chase.
Final Thoughts
Saying the Wellington Arch is a part of "rich history" would be an understatement. The Wellington Arch has been known as an architectural staple throughout London for nearly 200 years. From the historic victory in the Napoleonic war to its numerous connections in modern media, this arch plays a significant role in London's history and culture and will continue to do so.