Monday, June 4, 2012

Piccadilly Circus

Piccadilly Circus is a famous road junction and public space of London's West Endin the City of Westminster. It was built in 1819. The Circus was created by John Nash. The Circus is close to major shopping and entertainment areas in the heart of the West End.



At the center of the Circus stands the Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain. It was built in 1893 to commemorate Lord Shaftesbury, a philanthropist known for his support of the poor.
The Circus is particularly known for its video display and neon signs mounted on the corner building on the northern side.

The name 'Piccadilly' originates from a 17th century frilled collar named piccadil. Roger Baker, a tailor who became rich making piccadils lived in the area. The word 'Circus' refers to the roundabout around which the traffic circulated.



On the south side of Piccadilly Circus stands Criterion Theatre, on the north - London Pavilion. And today Piccadilly Circus is a favorite place for people to congregate before going to the nearby shopping and entertainment areas. Soho, Chinatown, Leicester Square and Trafalgar Square are all within walking distance.


Anna Margreiter

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