Trafalgar Sq, London WC2N 5NJ
The Fourth Plinth
The fourth plinth is the northwest plinth in Trafalgar Square in central London. It was originally intended to hold an equestrian statue of William IV, but remained bare due to insufficient funds.
Location
About
The Fourth Plinth is a unique tourist attraction in London, England that has captured the attention of tourists from around the world. Located in Trafalgar Square, the Fourth Plinth was originally designed to hold a statue of King William IV but remained empty for over 150 years until 1999, when it was repurposed as a platform for contemporary art installations.
Since then, the Fourth Plinth has become a cultural hub, showcasing a range of eclectic and thought-provoking artworks from world-renowned artists. The sculptures on display rotate every few years, providing visitors with a fresh and exciting experience every time they visit.
One of the most popular installations to have graced the Fourth Plinth in recent years is the 2018 sculpture, "The Invisible Enemy Should Not Exist" by artist Michael Rakowitz. The sculpture is a recreation of a 7th-century Assyrian lamassu statue that was destroyed by ISIS in 2015. Rakowitz painstakingly recreated the sculpture using 10,500 empty Iraqi date syrup cans, highlighting the destruction of cultural heritage in war-torn countries.
Another popular installation was the 2015 sculpture "Gift Horse" by artist Hans Haacke. The sculpture featured a skeletal horse with a live electronic ticker tape displaying the London Stock Exchange's market prices wrapped around its leg. The artwork was a commentary on the relationship between power, money, and public art.
The Fourth Plinth also offers visitors the chance to engage with contemporary art in a unique and interactive way. The Mayor of London's Fourth Plinth Schools Awards encourages school children to create their own sculptures, with the winning entries displayed on the Fourth Plinth alongside the professional installations.
Visitors can also take part in guided tours of the Fourth Plinth, led by expert guides who provide insight into the history and significance of the site. The tours are free and offer visitors the chance to learn more about the installations and the artists behind them.
In addition to the Fourth Plinth, Trafalgar Square itself is a popular tourist destination, with its iconic fountains, historic buildings, and bustling atmosphere. The square is surrounded by some of London's most popular museums and galleries, including the National Gallery and the National Portrait Gallery, making it an ideal destination for culture vultures.
Overall, the Fourth Plinth is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in contemporary art and culture. With its ever-changing installations and interactive programs, the Fourth Plinth offers a unique and thought-provoking experience for tourists of all ages and backgrounds.
Gallery
Opening Hours
| Thursday | Open 24 hours |
|---|---|
| Friday | Open 24 hours |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
| Sunday | Open 24 hours |
| Monday | Open 24 hours |
| Tuesday | Open 24 hours |
| Wednesday | Open 24 hours |