The Abbey Road crosswalk made famous by The Beatles’ 1969 album cover has been repainted since tourists have all but disappeared during London’s coronavirus lockdown.
The zebra stripes of the world’s most recognized pedestrian crossing – which even has its own webcam – had been faded for years due to the high amount of foot traffic. Now, they are once again as gleaming white as when the cover photo was taken.
Tourists have been clearing out of London as the city has slowly shut down; on March 19, the Mayor of London announced a reduced service on the London Underground, with some stations closed entirely. Consequently, people have been asked to use public transportation for essential journeys only. Prime Minister Boris Johnson closed non-essential businesses on March 20.
In light of the current circumstances, an artist reimagined the album cover by applying social distancing rules.
The crossing, the first of its kind to receive Grade II-listed status for its ‘cultural and historical importance’, may now appear as it did when John, Paul, Ringo, and George walked across in the photograph. However, the original crosswalk was actually moved several meters south in the 1980s to improve traffic management.
Abbey Road was the Beatles’ final studio album, marking its 50th anniversary last year with a significant celebration attended by Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr.
