Commonwealth Memorial Gates

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Reference WMO/77089

Address:

Constitution Hill

Westminster

London

W1J 7NU

England

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War Memorials Trust case: War Memorials Trust needs to avoid Contributors changing location/description details as we help to protect and conserve this war memorial through our casework. You can still add photographs, update condition and use the tabs below. If you believe any of the information you cannot edit is wrong or information is missing, please make a note of the reference number and include it in your email when you contact us.

Status: On original site
Type: Freestanding
Location: External
Setting: Roadside
Description: Composite
Materials:
  • Stone Stone (any)
Conflicts:
  • First World War (1914-1918)
  • Second World War (1939-1945)
About the memorial: A set of 4 columns, 2 on either side of road, topped by an urn and also a circular, domed pavilion or Chattri with the names of those awarded the VC on its ceiling. Includes India Armed Forces Pakistani Armed Forces Bangladeshi Armed Forces Nepalese Armed Forces Sri Lankan Armed Forces African Armed Forces Caribbean Armed Forces ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Mayfair & Hyde Park Walk: A lot of thought was put into the positioning and design of this memorial so that it fitted into the historic landscape and reflected the architectural nature of the area. The Wellington Arch originally formed part of a unified design providing a grand entrance way to London but it was moved to its present position and the concept lost. These “gates” re-establish a sense of grandeur to Constitution Hill. The Portland stone piers support bronze urns which, in classical times, were used to for cremation (the Latin “uro” meaning “to burn). Thus they symbolise the remains of those remembered. The space between the piers forms a perfect square. Alongside there is a pavilion which reflects an eastern ( “Mughal”) 16th century symmetrical style seen in places like India and Pakistan. If you look carefully there are other subtle aspects of the design. The railings hint at the peacock (a symbol of immortality) the oak leaf part of the lamp standards also appear in the wreaths below the urns. In Celtic times the oak tree was linked with qualities of strength, wisdom, loyalty and honour. Thus, in all, a complex but fitting tribute to the enormous support provided by the Commonwealth to the war effort. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Route: Now turn left then right down Piccadilly to find the Bomber Command memorial near Green Park Station. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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