Updated May 25, 2023
About the Tower of London
London is a place that everyone dreams of visiting. The place is a popular tourist attraction and has so many places to visit. One of the best places in the country is the Tower of London. It is where you can understand all about the country’s history.
A huge white tower situated on the Thames was given to the country by the Norman Military Architecture, and the Tower of London was built on the orders of William the Conqueror. He wanted to assert his powers and protect London.
History of the Place
The Tower of London was built in 1066 as an example of Norman power, and it acts both as a gateway and fortress to the capital. It is an 11th-century palace and is one of the few surviving architectures that depicted royal buildings. Till now, the Tower of London is seen as an example of royalty, and many State Institutions were built there. The placemarks various historic events, such as the execution of three queens of England.
The tower was strategically built on the Thames to mark a separation point between the monarchy and the developing power of London City. It provided the city with complete protection through garrison provision and a defense structure.
This property slowly evolved between the 11th and 16th centuries. It was the most influential place in the 13th and 14th centuries during the rule of Edward I and Henry III. The remaining part gives people a peek at the medieval times ingrained in the walls of the fortress.
Every tourist who visits England doesn’t miss out on this old building. Its ground floor displays an amazing collection of all the royal armor. This includes the suit of armor worn by Henry VIII. On the first floor, you would see the unadorned but quiet-impressive chapel of St. John, the Evangelist. This is an 11th-century chapel and is known to be used as the office for national records.
If you look at the Southwest corner of this tower, you’d find the “Bloody Tower.” This is the place where the uncle of Edward V held him captive along with his younger brother. Edward V was only 12 at that time. The uncle was none other than Richard III.
According to history, Richard III also killed Edward V and his brother to stop them from claiming the throne. That’s why the name of this place is Bloody Tower. In this same place, Sir Walter Raleigh wrote: “Historie of the World” under the guidance of James I.
The Tower Green Scaffold is situated close to St. Peter and Vincula’s Chapel. Catherine Howard and Anne Boleyn, wives of Henry, were beheaded here.
What is Special About the Tower of London?
There are so many impressing facts about the Tower of London that nobody can resist visiting it –
- The white tower is surrounded by 13 towers in total. It is a 900-year-old building that is more of a fascination for visitors rather than a history lesson.
- Today, the place is home to many crown jewels. The jewels that were used by monarchs at the beginning of Parliament also adorn this place.
- The tower is guarded by bearded warders (waiters). The waiters also take care of the many ravens staying outside the tower. According to an old legend, if six ravens leave this fortress, the monarchy would fall. Charles III decided to protect the ravens; since then, it has been a part of the tradition.
- Till 1835, the place was a zoo where various animals like polar bears, lions, and ostriches stayed. These animals were presented as a gift to the monarchs.
Booking
Make sure that you book your tickets in advance so that you can get a better price. Visit the place early in the morning, so you don’t get lost in the crowd and spend half a day here. You can get through different places using the cobbled paths and stairs.
Visit the Tower of London
In the 21st century, the Tower of London is considered one of the favorite tourist destinations. It is a World Heritage Site that is graced by over 2 million people every year. This place gives you something amazing to take back home. So, if you are visiting the city, don’t forget to check out this place!
