The Cenotaph is a war memorial on Whitehall in central London, designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens. Its name means “empty tomb,” and its simple form commemorates British and Commonwealth service personnel who died in the two World Wars and later conflicts. The permanent Portland stone monument replaced a temporary structure and was unveiled on 11 November 1920. Take a quiet moment to reflect, then continue along Whitehall to nearby memorials, including the Women of World War II Monument.
A permanent memorial on Whitehall
Sir Edwin Lutyens designed the Cenotaph as a temporary structure in 1919. It was first made of wood and plaster for the Peace Day parade. The permanent Portland stone memorial was unveiled on Armistice Day, 11 November 1920.
The name comes from a Greek word meaning “empty tomb.” The memorial marked the absence of people who had died in the First World War and had no known grave. Its restrained design gives visitors a place to pause without distracting from the act of remembrance.
Remembrance through the year
The Cenotaph commemorates British and Commonwealth service personnel who died in the two World Wars and later conflicts. Each November, it is the setting for the National Service of Remembrance. The annual ceremony includes a moment of silence and the laying of wreaths.
The memorial stands on Whitehall, close to Downing Street and the Women of World War II Monument. You can include it on a walk along Whitehall toward Parliament Street, or stop to see the nearby memorials as part of the same visit.
Häufige Fragen
Where is the Cenotaph?
It stands on Whitehall in central London, near Downing Street and the Women of World War II Monument.
What does the Cenotaph commemorate?
It commemorates British and Commonwealth service personnel who died in the two World Wars and later conflicts.
When is the Remembrance Parade?
The annual Remembrance Parade takes place on the second Sunday of November.
