Marble Arch, London

Marble Arch is an area in London, named after a white Carrara marble monument situated near Speakers Corner in Hyde Park.

The design by John Nash is based on the triumphal Arch of Constantine in Rome and was originally positioned on the Mall as an entrance to Buckingham Palace. When the Palace was extended in 1851, the arch was moved to the corner of Hyde Park. If rumours are to be believed, it was moved to its current position because the Royal Coach could not fit through the arch.

The site has an interesting history. Up until the 18th century, Tyburn (now Marble Arch) was the site for public executions and is where 50,000 people died on the gallows.

Today, the arch is open to pedestrians who can observe the intricate carvings. The nearest tube station is Marble Arch.