Execution Memorial

Before you is a thoughtful memorial sculpture, dedicated to those executed by order of the state. The inscription reads: “Gentle visitor pause awhile: where you stand death cut away the light of many days: here jeweled names were broken from the vivid thread of life: may they rest in peace while we walk the generations around their strife and courage: under these restless skies”.

The execution memorial on Tower Green was created by sculptor Brian Catling and commissioned by Historic Royal Palaces in 2006. The memorial sculpture was designed to provide a thoughtful and reflective space for visitors.

Ten people were beheaded on or near this green, including three former queens of England. Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard, both wives of Henry VIII, were accused of treason and executed here. Lady Jane Grey, who reigned for just nine days, also met her fate on these grounds.

Executions within the Tower walls were considered a privilege, away from public spectacle. Anne Boleyn’s execution was carried out by an expert swordsman brought from France. She is said to have remarked, “I heard say the executioner was very good, and I have a little neck”.

Not all executions were as swift. Margaret Pole, Countess of Salisbury, unfortunately experienced a more difficult end at the hands of an inexperienced executioner. It took eleven blows in total to complete the execution, a far cry from the quick and dignified end befitting her status.

Queen Victoria originally requested information about the exact location of executions and had some granite paving laid to mark the spot in the 19th century. There is some dispute about whether the memorial’s location accurately represents the exact spot where executions took place. Some sources suggest that the current site may have been incorrectly identified to Queen Victoria by a Yeoman Warder during her visit.

Despite this uncertainty, the memorial serves as a powerful symbol and a place for contemplation of the Tower’s complex history.