Duke of Wellington Statue
About
The Equestrian Statue of the Duke of Wellington is a striking bronze monument that stands outside Glasgow’s Gallery of Modern Art, formerly the Royal Exchange. Cast in 1844 by the Italian-born French sculptor Carlo Marochetti, it portrays Field Marshal Arthur Wellesley – celebrated for his triumph over Napoleon at Waterloo – in a dynamic stance upon his horse, Copenhagen. Over the decades it has become a symbol of Glasgow’s unique humour; since the 1980s locals have crowned the statue’s head with a bright traffic cone, sparking smiles across the city. Visible from Queen Street, the statue is freely accessible at any time, welcoming casual passers‑by, history buffs, and photographers alike to admire its intricate detailing and storied past.
Highlights
- Traffic Cone Tradition
- Bronze Statue by Carlo Marochetti
- Historic Dedication
- Public Accessibility
- Location Visibility
Must-See Areas
Good to Know
Good for
Best time to visit
Late spring to early autumn, when the weather is mild and the crowds are fewer.
At a glance
- Typical visit: about 15 minutes