Alan Turing Memorial

Overview

The Alan Turing Memorial is a life-size bronze statue of the mathematician and computer science pioneer sitting on a park bench in Sackville Gardens. It serves as both a tribute to his genius and a poignant reminder of his persecution.

Highlights

• The Apple: Turing holds a half-eaten apple — a symbol variously interpreted as referencing Snow White, the cyanide that killed him, or the Apple logo.
• Bench Inscription: The plaque reads "Father of Computer Science, Mathematician, Logician, Wartime Codebreaker, Victim of Prejudice."
• Rainbow plaque: A nearby heritage plaque marks the memorial's significance to the LGBTQ+ community.

History

Sculpted by Glyn Hughes and unveiled in 2001, the memorial sits in Manchester's Gay Village, where Turing lived during his years at the University of Manchester. He was posthumously pardoned by Royal Pardon in 2013.

Visitor Tips

• Access: Open 24/7 in Sackville Gardens; free.
• Combine with: A walk around the Gay Village on Canal Street.
• Duration: 10–15 minutes.