Beacon of Hope
A 63ft beacon of peace and hope, this striking sculpture in Belfast's Thanksgiving Square symbolizes the city's aspirations.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best light for photos
Beacon of Hope
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 63ft beacon of peace and hope, this striking sculpture in Belfast's Thanksgiving Square symbolizes the city's aspirations.
"Locals affectionately call it 'Nuala with the Hula,' adding a touch of charm to this powerful symbol of Belfast's future."
📸 Capture the Scale
Walk around the sculpture to find the best angles that showcase its impressive height and the surrounding cityscape. :camerawithflash:
💡 Understand the Symbolism
Read up on the sculpture's meaning before you visit to fully appreciate its message of peace and hope. :books:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Beacon of Hope Sculpture
Thanksgiving Square, Belfast
A 63ft stainless steel and bronze figure holding a large ring, symbolizing peace and hope.
Thanksgiving Square Views
Around the sculpture
Enjoy panoramic views of the River Lagan and Belfast's cityscape from the sculpture's base.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free to Admire, But Mind the Angles
Symbolism and Local Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Scale
Walk around the sculpture to find the best angles that showcase its impressive height and the surrounding cityscape. :camerawithflash:
💡 Understand the Symbolism
Read up on the sculpture's meaning before you visit to fully appreciate its message of peace and hope. :books:
🚶♀️ Explore Thanksgiving Square
The sculpture is the centerpiece of Thanksgiving Square, offering pleasant surroundings for a stroll. :walking:
🚗 Parking Considerations
Parking nearby can be limited; consider public transport or walking if possible. :car:
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Scale
Walk around the sculpture to find the best angles that showcase its impressive height and the surrounding cityscape. :camerawithflash:
💡 Understand the Symbolism
Read up on the sculpture's meaning before you visit to fully appreciate its message of peace and hope. :books:
🚶♀️ Explore Thanksgiving Square
The sculpture is the centerpiece of Thanksgiving Square, offering pleasant surroundings for a stroll. :walking:
🚗 Parking Considerations
Parking nearby can be limited; consider public transport or walking if possible. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Beacon of Hope a striking and impressive sculpture, appreciating its symbolism of peace and hope for Belfast. Its free accessibility and prominent location in Thanksgiving Square are major draws, though some note that surrounding buildings can occasionally detract from the view. The local nicknames add a charming touch to this iconic landmark.
"The Beacon of Hope is a striking sculpture. Standing at 63 ft in height, it is the second tallest sculpture in Belfast. It is free to view.
The sculpture can be viewed by people who use a wheelchair, though views are more impacted by surrounding architecture.
The sculpture is not accessible for tactile purposes."
Shelley C
"The Beacon of Hope is a significant public sculpture in Belfast, located in Thanksgiving Square. Standing at 19.5 meters tall, the stainless steel and bronze statue depicts a female figure holding a large ring.
Created by artist Andy Scott and unveiled in 2007, it symbolizes peace, gratitude, and hope for Belfast's future. The sculpture is a popular landmark and has earned local nicknames like "Nuala with the Hula.""
Nimesh Dedhia
"Made of stainless steel and cast bronze, she spirals upwards and holds aloft "the ring of thanksgiving. The globe at her feet indicates the universal philosophy of peace, harmony and thanksgiving, and has marked on its surface the cities where the people and industries of Belfast migrated and exported to."
Alice C
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Beacon of Hope is located in Thanksgiving Square, easily accessible by foot from Belfast city center. Several bus routes stop nearby, and it's a pleasant walk from popular areas like the Titanic Quarter. Parking is available in nearby city car parks, though it can be busy.
Yes, the sculpture is accessible for wheelchair users. However, some surrounding architecture might slightly impact the viewing angles from a wheelchair. :wheelchair:
Numerous bus routes serve the city center, with stops within a short walking distance of Thanksgiving Square. Check Translink for the most up-to-date schedules and routes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, viewing the Beacon of Hope sculpture is completely free! It's a wonderful public art installation accessible to everyone. :moneywithwings:
Thanksgiving Square and the Beacon of Hope are public spaces and are generally accessible at all times. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for the optimal viewing experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing stunning photos. Golden hour can provide beautiful warm tones. :sunriseovermountains: :city_sunset:
Experiment with different angles from Thanksgiving Square and the surrounding quayside. Looking up from the base emphasizes its height, while views from across the river offer a broader perspective.
Absolutely! The sculpture is designed to be viewed from multiple perspectives. Walking around it reveals different facets and how it interacts with the cityscape.
🎫 💡 Symbolism & History
The sculpture symbolizes peace, gratitude, and hope for Belfast's future. The figure reaching upwards represents aspiration, and the globe signifies universal peace and interconnectedness. :dove:
Unveiled in 2007, the Beacon of Hope was created by artist Andy Scott to mark Belfast's progress and embrace diversity and reconciliation after decades of conflict. It's a testament to the city's transformation. :scales:
Locals affectionately call it 'Nuala with the Hula' or 'The Thing with the Ring' due to the figure's pose and the large ring she holds, reflecting the community's lighthearted spirit. :joy:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage children to imagine what the figure is holding and why she's looking upwards. It's a simple yet effective way to spark their curiosity about art and symbolism. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, as facilities directly at the square are limited. The nearby city center offers plenty of family-friendly dining options.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with a walk along the River Lagan or explore other free attractions in the city center. It's an ideal stop for those looking to experience the essence of Belfast without a hefty price tag. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy in Thanksgiving Square for an even more economical outing.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistry and Symbolism of the Beacon of Hope
Locals have embraced the sculpture with endearing nicknames like 'Nuala with the Hula' and 'The Thing with the Ring,' adding a layer of community charm to this significant public art piece. These informal names reflect the lighthearted spirit of Belfast residents and their connection to the monument. The sculpture's placement in Thanksgiving Square further emphasizes its theme of gratitude and peace, making it a focal point for reflection and appreciation of the city's progress.
When visiting, take time to observe how the sculpture interacts with its surroundings. Depending on your vantage point, the figure can appear to rise above the river or have buildings visible through her form. Understanding the artist's intent and the historical context enriches the experience, transforming a simple viewing into a deeper appreciation of Belfast's resilience and forward-looking spirit.
Experiencing Thanksgiving Square
While the sculpture is the main draw, the surrounding area offers a glimpse into modern Belfast. The square is well-maintained and provides seating areas, making it a comfortable place to pause and take in the atmosphere. Its proximity to other city attractions means it can easily be incorporated into a walking tour of Belfast's key landmarks.
For those interested in the broader context of Belfast's regeneration, Thanksgiving Square and the Beacon of Hope are excellent examples of how public art can contribute to urban renewal and create a sense of place. The open design of the square ensures that the sculpture remains the focal point, inviting contemplation and appreciation from all who visit.
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