Statue of Constantine the Great, York
Bronze statue of Roman Emperor Constantine the Great at York Minster, marking his historic proclamation as emperor in AD 306.
The Statue of Constantine the Great in York is a striking bronze monument unveiled in 1998, located on Minster Yard outside York Minster. It commemorates the proclamation of Constantine as Roman Emperor in AD 306 at this historic site. Designed by sculptor Philip Jackson, the statue depicts Constantine seated in military dress with a broken sword and an outstretched arm, symbolizing his legendary vision and victory under the Christian sign.
A brief summary to Constantine the Great
- 4 Minster Yard, York, YO1 7JB, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the statue's details and the surrounding historic Minster Yard.
- Combine your visit with a tour of York Minster and the nearby Roman column to deepen your understanding of York’s Roman heritage.
- Look for the inscription at the statue’s base to connect with the legend of Constantine’s vision before battle.
- Photograph the statue from different angles to capture its imposing presence against the backdrop of York Minster.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the York Park & Ride bus service to the York Minster stop, located about 5 to 10 minutes from the statue on foot. Buses run frequently every 10-15 minutes, costing around £3-£5 for a single ticket.
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Taxi
A taxi ride from York city center to Minster Yard takes approximately 5 minutes. Taxis are readily available with fares typically ranging from £5 to £8. Note that parking near Minster Yard is limited.
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Walking
From York city center, the statue is a 10 to 15-minute walk along mostly flat, paved pedestrian streets. The route is accessible and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Constantine the Great location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Constantine the Great
A Monument to a Roman Emperor's Proclamation in York
The Statue of Constantine the Great stands prominently in Minster Yard, just outside the majestic York Minster. Unveiled in 1998 and crafted by the renowned sculptor Philip Jackson, this bronze statue commemorates the momentous occasion in AD 306 when Constantine was proclaimed Roman Emperor in the Roman city of Eboracum, now modern-day York. This event marked a pivotal turning point in Roman and Christian history, as Constantine would later become the first Roman emperor to convert to Christianity.Artistic Design and Symbolism
The statue portrays Constantine seated on a throne, clad in military attire that reflects his role as a victorious leader. His right arm is outstretched behind him, while his left hand grips the pommel of a sword, the tip of which is deliberately shown broken. This broken sword symbolizes both the end of conflict and the beginning of a new era. Inscribed on the statue’s base is the Latin phrase "Constantine by this sign conquer," a translation of "in hoc signo vinces," referencing Constantine’s legendary vision of a cross of light in the sky before battle, which inspired his army to victory.Historical Context and Legacy
Constantine’s rise to power in York followed the death of his father, Constantius Chlorus, during a campaign in Britain. His reign, which lasted until 337 AD, was notable for uniting the Roman Empire and establishing Constantinople as a new imperial capital. He introduced significant reforms including the legalization of Christianity, which shaped the religious and political landscape of Europe for centuries. The statue’s location near York Minster connects this legacy to the city’s rich Roman and Christian heritage.Recent History and Cultural Significance
The statue has experienced events reflecting its cultural resonance. In 2016, its sword was stolen and later restored by the York Civic Trust. It has also been the focus of public debate in recent years, particularly regarding Constantine’s historical associations. Despite controversies, the statue remains a powerful symbol of York’s Roman past and its role in shaping Western civilization. Nearby, a Roman column dating from the first century complements the statue, emphasizing York’s long-standing historical importance.Setting and Visitor Experience
Situated in a bustling pedestrian area, the statue offers visitors a contemplative encounter with history amidst the backdrop of York Minster’s gothic grandeur. The glowing star on the Minster’s scaffolding above the statue enhances its spiritual symbolism, linking the monument to the Christian narrative of Constantine’s vision. The statue’s commanding presence invites reflection on empire, faith, and the enduring impact of this Roman emperor.York’s Emblem of Western Heritage
Beyond commemorating a historical figure, the statue serves as a cultural landmark that anchors York’s identity within the broader story of Western Christendom. It reflects the city’s layered history from Roman military stronghold to medieval religious center, bridging millennia through art and memory. The statue is a testament to Constantine’s complex legacy and York’s role as a foundational city in European history.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Roman Column
0.0 km
A 7.6-metre Roman column where Constantine may have been declared Emperor, standing in the shadow of York Minster since 1971.
The Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of St Peter in York
0.1 km
A soaring Gothic masterpiece in the heart of York, where 1,400 years of faith, history, and light-filled architecture converge in one of England’s greatest cathedrals.
Sundial Column
0.1 km
An elegant 18th-century sundial column on stone lions, quietly marking time just east of York Minster in a peaceful corner of the cathedral precincts.
The Norman House
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Discover York’s oldest medieval house, a Norman stone residence with rare surviving walls and a Norman window hidden behind Stonegate.
Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours (formally BOBH)
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Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich heritage of Yorkshire with personalized tours from Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours.
York Gifts and Souvenirs
0.2 km
Explore York Gifts and Souvenirs for locally crafted treasures and unique gifts that capture the essence of York's rich history and culture.
Bootham Bar
0.2 km
Explore Bootham Bar, York’s medieval gateway with Roman roots, historic portcullis, and stunning views of the city’s ancient walls and Minster.
Ghost Hunt of York
0.3 km
Explore the haunted streets of York with the Ghost Hunt, where history and the supernatural collide in an unforgettable sightseeing experience.
The York Ghost Merchants
0.3 km
Explore a unique blend of York's ghostly history and charming souvenirs at The York Ghost Merchants, your destination for eerie collectibles.
Anglian Tower
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Discover York’s rare Anglo-Saxon watchtower, a unique stone relic woven into ancient Roman walls and shrouded in centuries of history.
Shrine of Saint Margaret Clitherow
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Explore the Shrine of Saint Margaret Clitherow in York, a serene sanctuary steeped in history and spiritual significance, perfect for reflection and discovery.
York Art Gallery
0.3 km
Explore York Art Gallery: A cultural gem showcasing a vibrant mix of historical and contemporary art in the heart of York.
Medieval Walls
0.3 km
Walk England’s longest medieval walls, tracing 2,000 years of York’s history with stunning city views and iconic fortified gateways.
Robin Hood Tower
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Explore York’s Victorian Robin Hood Tower, a striking city wall sentinel with historic charm and captivating views of medieval defenses and York Minster.
King's Manor - University of York
0.3 km
A majestic Grade I listed Tudor manor blending royal history with academic life in the heart of York’s city centre.
Unmissable attractions to see
York Minster
0.1 km
Explore the awe-inspiring York Minster, Northern Europe's largest Gothic cathedral, a treasure trove of art, history, and spirituality.
St Michael Le Belfrey
0.1 km
York’s largest Tudor parish church, rich in history, vibrant worship, and the baptism site of Guy Fawkes.
The Antiques Centre York
0.1 km
York’s largest antiques emporium on historic Stonegate, offering diverse treasures across three floors in a vibrant community setting.
Shadows of York Ghost Walk
0.1 km
Explore York’s eerie streets on a captivating ghost walk blending history, hauntings, and theatrical storytelling for all ages.
The Deathly Dark Tours
0.1 km
Discover York’s haunted streets with a perfect mix of spooky tales and dark humor on The Deathly Dark Tours ghost walk.
The Bloody Tour of York
0.1 km
York's darkest stories come alive through theatrical storytelling and genuine historical insight.
Minster Yard
0.1 km
Historic Minster Yard in York surrounds the majestic York Minster, blending medieval heritage, stunning Gothic architecture, and vibrant cultural life.
The Ghost Trail Of York
0.1 km
Explore York’s haunted snickelways on a thrilling, family-friendly ghost walk beneath the gothic grandeur of York Minster.
Barley Hall
0.1 km
Step into Barley Hall, York’s beautifully restored medieval townhouse, and experience the vibrant domestic life of 14th-century England.
Holy Trinity Church, Goodramgate
0.1 km
Discover York’s oldest medieval church, a tranquil sanctuary with rare box pews, stunning stained glass, and rich stories of history and love.
York Armoury
0.1 km
Discover authentic historical arms, armour, and movie swords in York’s premier specialist gift shop on atmospheric Stonegate.
Coffee yard
0.1 km
Discover the quiet charm and medieval heritage of Coffee Yard, a historic snickelway nestled in the heart of York’s old city.
Chapter House
0.1 km
Medieval masterpiece where timber vaults defy gravity and Parliament once convened in octagonal splendor.
Snickleway Inn
0.1 km
Step into York’s 15th-century Snickleway Inn, a historic pub famed for its cosy charm and ghostly legends.
Dean's Park
0.1 km
A peaceful green oasis beside York Minster, blending historic charm with tranquil gardens and stunning cathedral views.
Essential places to dine
Fat Hippo York
0.1 km
Savour bold, creative burgers and dirty fries in York’s historic Low Petergate, where casual meets flavour-packed indulgence.
Forest
0.1 km
Charming Georgian hotel in York’s historic heart with cozy rooms and acclaimed Forest Restaurant, perfect for exploring medieval streets and local culture.
Côte York
0.1 km
Experience authentic Parisian brasserie dining with classic French dishes and warm hospitality in the heart of historic York.
Guy Fawkes Inn
0.1 km
Historic inn with cozy period rooms, lively pub, and unbeatable central location near York Minster.
La Vecchia Scuola
0.1 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and contemporary dining in the heart of historic York at La Vecchia Scuola.
House Of The Trembling Madness // Stonegate (No table bookings)
0.1 km
A medieval ale house with a vast craft beer collection, quirky charm, and hearty Yorkshire fare in the heart of historic York.
Lucia Restaurant
0.1 km
Experience vibrant Italian dining and cocktails in York’s heart, with a heated courtyard and stylish lounge for all-day enjoyment.
Los Moros
0.1 km
Experience authentic North African cuisine with vibrant flavors and a rustic charm in the heart of historic York.
Fancy Hank's Bar & Kitchen
0.1 km
Experience hearty Southern American flavors and vibrant cocktails in the heart of York’s historic Minster Quarter.
Wildwood
0.1 km
Cozy Italian dining with stone-baked pizzas, fresh pasta, and vegan-friendly options in the heart of historic York’s Low Petergate.
Bab Tooma York
0.2 km
Experience authentic Syrian cuisine in a warm, traditional setting with generous portions and BYOB in the heart of York.
The Botanist York
0.2 km
A vibrant botanical bar and restaurant on York’s historic Stonegate, blending fresh seasonal cuisine with live music and lush, nature-inspired interiors.
Forage Kitchen & Bar
0.2 km
Refined fire-cooked dishes and inventive Yorkshire cocktails in a lush, intimate setting on York’s historic Little Stonegate.
D'vine Restaurant And Social Bar
0.2 km
A vibrant York venue blending British, Italian, and Mediterranean flavors with a lively social bar atmosphere.
Las Iguanas - York
0.2 km
Experience vibrant Latin American flavours and lively cocktails in York’s historic city centre at Las Iguanas.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
York Minster Shop
0.0 km
Discover authentic souvenirs and specialist books celebrating York Minster's medieval heritage.
SOCTOPUS
0.0 km
Discover York’s playful sock boutique blending British humour, culture, and quirky style in every colourful pair.
Shared Earth
0.1 km
Discover ethically sourced treasures and handcrafted fair trade gifts in the heart of historic York.
The Cat Gallery
0.1 km
York's iconic independent gift shop celebrating all things feline since 2001.
Rookscroft
0.1 km
Discover handcrafted treasures and local charm at Rookscroft, York’s cozy gift shop on historic Stonegate.
York Souvenirs and Gifts
0.1 km
Authentic Yorkshire souvenirs and handcrafted gifts in the heart of historic York’s medieval streets.
The Knutti Store, a Viking Trading Post
0.1 km
Step into York’s Viking past at The Knutti Store, where authentic craftsmanship meets legendary tales in a charming trading post setting.
National Trust Gift Shop
0.1 km
Discover unique National Trust gifts and local crafts in a historic York setting supporting conservation and heritage.
Käthe Wohlfahrt
0.1 km
Experience authentic German Christmas magic year-round in York’s historic Tudor townhouse on Stonegate.
Paper Doll
0.2 km
Discover unique, colourful fashion and artisan jewellery in York’s charming Paper Doll boutique, a hidden gem for stylish and distinctive finds.
Pandora
0.2 km
Discover elegant, hand-finished jewellery crafted with care and inspired by timeless style at Pandora on Low Petergate, York.
The Medieval Scribe
0.2 km
Discover unique medieval-inspired crafts and artisanal treasures in the heart of York’s historic Church Street.
Cello by Collectables
0.2 km
Explore Cello by Collectables, a charming gift shop in York offering unique handcrafted treasures that embody the city's rich culture.
Sterling Souvenirs
0.2 km
Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs at Sterling Souvenirs, your friendly gift shop in the heart of King’s Square.
Cleggs
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts, handcrafted homewares, and stylish accessories in the heart of York’s historic Goodramgate at Cleggs.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Evil Eye
0.1 km
Quirky cocktails and lively entertainment blend seamlessly in York’s vibrant Evil Eye Lounge on historic Stonegate.
Ye Olde Starre Inne
0.1 km
Historic and welcoming pub on York’s Stonegate, serving hearty British classics in a charming medieval setting.
Oscar's Wine Bar & Bistro
0.2 km
A lively and welcoming wine bar in York offering quality food, diverse wines, and a charming atmosphere for all occasions.
Slug & Lettuce - Swinegate York
0.2 km
A lively cocktail bar and casual dining spot in York’s historic centre, perfect for social drinks, events, and weekend late nights.
Royal Oak
0.2 km
Traditional British pub charm in York’s historic heart, serving seasonal classics and local ales with a warm, dog-friendly welcome.
Bobos Cocktail Bar York
0.2 km
York’s vibrant two-floor cocktail bar with tropical drinks, heated shisha terrace, lively DJs, and unbeatable drink deals in the historic Quarter.
Vudu Lounge
0.2 km
York’s eclectic after-hours lounge blending quality cocktails with a lively, quirky nightlife vibe until the early morning.
The Punch Bowl
0.2 km
A historic York pub blending traditional charm, eclectic ales, and hearty British fare in a cozy, welcoming setting on Stonegate.
Victor J's
0.2 km
Eclectic art-inspired bar and restaurant in York’s heart, offering cozy seating, creative vibes, and lively weekend nights.
Eagle & Child
0.2 km
Historic 17th-century timber-framed pub in York offering craft ales, good food, and a charming beer garden in a quaint, lively setting.
Pivní York
0.2 km
Historic 16th-century timber-framed pub in York offering an exceptional selection of local and global craft beers in a cosy, multi-floor setting.
Dusk
0.3 km
A quirky and welcoming bar in York’s city centre, perfect for lively nights and casual drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.
House Of Trembling Madness // Lendal (No table bookings)
0.3 km
Step into York’s medieval gem where historic ambiance meets an extraordinary craft beer selection in a quirky, lively setting.
Lendal Cellars
0.3 km
Historic underground pub with a quirky atmosphere, diverse menu, and a rare city-center beer garden in York.
Revolution York
0.4 km
Lively riverside bar and restaurant in York’s historic centre with multiple bars, garden terrace, and a vibrant atmosphere for all occasions.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
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
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
