Royal Exchange Square is known for all of these things, but some centuries ago it had a very different role in the city. Glasgow’s merchants would meet at the Royal Exchange to exchange contracts dealing with cotton, coal, linen, steel, iron and stocks and shares. For over 100 years, the Exchange was the centre of trade and business in Glasgow, until the need for a central building declined. Fronting the Royal Exchange Square and facing along Ingram Street is the equestrian statue of the Duke of Wellington, designed by Italian artist Carlo Marochetti in 1844 and erected to mark the end of the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic wars. It has become synonymous with Glasgow and one of the city’s most famous and photographed statues down to one very small – and bright – feature.

Source: The Times January 07, 2024 19:51 UTC