Nereid Statue in Cardiff: A Modern Tribute to Sea Nymphs
Graceful bronze sea nymph on a wave, symbolizing Cardiff’s maritime heritage and protection for sailors.
The Nereid Statue in Cardiff is a striking bronze sculpture by Nathan David, unveiled in 1996. It depicts an unnamed Nereid, a sea nymph from Greek mythology, standing gracefully on a curved wave with outstretched arms, holding a bird in her left hand above two bronze fish. Located on Kingsway near the city centre, this artwork symbolizes protection for sailors and reflects Cardiff's maritime heritage from its golden age as a major coal-exporting port.
A brief summary to Nereid Statue
- Cardiff, CF10 3AQ, GB
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the details and bronze patina of the statue.
- Combine your visit with nearby Cardiff Civic Centre and City Hall for a rich cultural experience.
- Look for the bird perched on the Nereid’s left hand and the bronze fish at the base for symbolic details.
- Explore other public artworks nearby to gain insight into Cardiff’s history and artistic heritage.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take Cardiff Bus routes 1, 2, or 8 to the City Hall stop on Kingsway, approximately a 10-15 minute ride from Cardiff Central Station. Services run frequently every 10-20 minutes. A single ticket costs around £2.50.
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Train and Walk
From Cardiff Central railway station, walk about 15 minutes through the city centre to Kingsway where the statue is located. The route is mostly flat and suitable for most visitors.
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Taxi
Taxis from Cardiff Central Station to the Nereid Statue take about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. Typical fare ranges from £5 to £8.
Nereid Statue location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Nereid Statue
Mythological Inspiration and Artistic Design
The Nereid Statue represents one of the sea nymphs from Greek mythology known as Nereids, daughters of Nereus and Doris. Traditionally, there were fifty Nereids, companions of Poseidon and protectors of sailors caught in storms. This particular sculpture portrays an unnamed Nereid wearing a thin dress, with arms outstretched towards a bird perched delicately on her left hand. She stands atop a curved wave, with two bronze fish at the base, symbolizing her connection to the sea. The statue itself stands 183cm tall, resting on a polished granite base 152cm high.Location and Historical Context in Cardiff
Situated on Kingsway in central Cardiff, the statue is prominently visible near the underpass of Boulevard de Nantes, close to City Hall and the Hilton Hotel. While some suggest the statue might be more fittingly placed in Cardiff Bay, its current location ties it to the city's rich maritime history. Cardiff was once the world’s largest coal-exporting port, and the wealth generated during this period enabled the development of the Civic Centre and Cardiff Castle. The Nereid Statue thus serves as a reminder of the city’s seafaring heritage and the protection once sought by sailors navigating the nearby waters.The Sculptor and Artistic Significance
The statue was created by British sculptor Nathan David, a Fellow of the Royal British Society of Sculptors, known for his dynamic depictions of movement. Unveiled in 1996, the Nereid is one of his notable public commissions, capturing the fluidity and grace of the mythological figure. David’s work balances realism and artistic interpretation, making the statue a distinctive piece of modern art within Cardiff’s public art collection.Symbolism and Cultural Meaning
Nereids in mythology were seen as benevolent sea spirits who aided sailors during perilous storms. This statue embodies that protective spirit, symbolically offering safety to Cardiff’s maritime community, past and present. The bird on her hand and the fish at her feet deepen the connection to nature and the sea, emphasizing harmony between humanity and the marine environment. The statue’s presence in the city centre subtly honors the importance of the sea to Cardiff’s identity and prosperity.Integration into Cardiff’s Public Art Landscape
The Nereid Statue is part of Cardiff’s extensive and varied public art collection, which includes commemorative statues, memorials, and contemporary sculptures. This collection reflects the city’s history, culture, and evolving identity. The Nereid stands out as a piece of modern mythological art that complements other works celebrating Cardiff’s heritage, from historic figures to maritime themes.Visitor Experience and Visual Impact
Visitors encountering the Nereid Statue will notice its elegant form and the sense of movement captured in bronze. The statue’s placement on a wave-shaped base and the detailed fish create a dynamic visual narrative. Its central location makes it accessible and a notable landmark for those exploring Cardiff’s city centre, inviting reflection on the city’s connection to the sea and its mythic protectors.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Nereid Statue
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A bronze sea nymph offering mythological protection to Cardiff's maritime legacy
South African War Memorial
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Cardiff Castle
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National Museum Cardiff
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Queen St
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Cardiff Castle, Cardiff Castle
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Firing Line Cardiff Castle Museum of the Welsh Soldier
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St John The Baptist City Parish Church
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High Street Arcade
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Cardiff Castle Museum
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Essential places to dine
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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The Works
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Little Welsh Company
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Hobos Vintage
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Castle Welsh Crafts Ltd
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Ganesha
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Flying Tiger
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Penny
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Flight Club Cardiff
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Glassworks
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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The CUBE
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Bar Cocoa
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
