Lady Godiva statue

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Lady Godiva, Coventry, statue

Lady Godiva statue

Where is it – England, West Midlands

Who looks after it –  Local Authority 

What is it –  Artwork, Free access 

When is it from – Medieval, Modern

Coventry’s Lady Godiva statue is situated in the City’s central square, Broadgate, which was redeveloped following the bombing of World War Two. Godiva, or Godgifu, was a pious 11th century noblewoman, the wife of Leofric, Earl of Mercia. According to a legend that dates back to at least the 13th century, she rode naked – covered only by her long hair – through the streets of Coventry to gain a remission for the people from the oppressive taxation that her husband imposed on his tenants. The term ‘Peeping Tom’ originates from later versions of this story, in which a man named Thomas watched her ride and was struck blind or dead. The eye-catching statue of Godiva in Broadgate was unveiled in 1949 and was sculpted by William Reid-Dick. Nearby is the Lady Godiva clock. When the bell strikes the hour, a figure of Lady Godiva on a white horse emerges; above is a window, through which Thomas peeps.

 


Address
Broadgate, Coventry, West Midlands CV1 1NE 

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