LADY GODIVA STATUE

This equestrian statue can be found in a busy commercial district of Coventry, and it commemorates a local noblewoman who is the subject of a legend that dates back generations. The legend of Godiva, Countess of Mercia, which has persisted for the past 900 years, is honoured by the Lady Godiva Statue. It's meant to evoke the story of a wealthy woman who rode naked through the streets of Coventry on horseback during market day.

The famous Lady of Godiva Statue may be found in the middle of Broadgate Square, where it stands resolutely, contrary to the expectations of most people who think that historical monuments belong in more mediaeval parts of town. This unique Grade II-listed statue has a fascinating history, and it is conveniently located near numerous businesses, eateries, and entertainment locations. Lady Godiva, according to mythology, was the deeply devout wife of Leofric, Earl of Mercia. Reportedly, Lady Godiva rode around Coventry in the mid-1100s with nothing on except her long hair as a protest against her husband's heavy taxes on the locals. The legends say that only one local resident, who earned the name "Peeping Tom," refused to look away from the show. Standing as a monument to this historic event is the William Reid-statue, which was unveiled in 1949. It's backed by the Broadgate Clock, a gigantic cuckoo clock whose doors open to reveal a sculpture of Lady Godiva atop her steed every hour on the hour. There's a Peeping Tom lurking in the ceiling above her.

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Highlights

• Watch the 11-th century statue of Lady Godiva which is Coventry’s pride and lies right in the centre of the city.
• Witness the beauty of the most celebrated woman from Britain’s Dark Ages.
• Listen to the story behind the statue that commemorates this Mercia Countess, a noblewoman in all respects.