Big ben london tower
1344×768 · AVIF · CC BY 4.0
Big Ben in London is the iconic bell and tower of the Palace of Westminster, a global symbol of the British capital.
About this subject
Big Ben is one of the most recognized landmarks in the world, located at the Palace of Westminster in London. Although the name originally refers to the 13.5-tonne great bell inside the tower, it is popularly used for the entire clock tower. Officially renamed Elizabeth Tower in 2012 to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee, the structure stands 96 meters tall and was completed in 1859 after the 1834 fire that destroyed much of the Palace of Westminster.
The architectural design is by Charles Barry and Augustus Pugin, who chose the neo-Gothic style typical of the Victorian era. The tower's clock is renowned for its accuracy: it has a pendulum mechanism adjusted by one-penny coins to correct the time. The bells chime every hour, with Big Ben sounding the note E. During World War II, the tower survived bombings and the clock continued running, becoming a symbol of resilience.
Interesting facts: Big Ben was silenced for renovations from 2017 to 2022, during which it only sounded for special events like New Year's Eve. The origin of the nickname is uncertain, but it is believed to honor Sir Benjamin Hall, the engineer responsible for installing the bell. Every year, thousands of tourists visit the site, and Big Ben is often used in films and media as a representation of London and the United Kingdom.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall is Big Ben?
The Big Ben tower is 96 meters tall, including the spire. There are 334 steps to the top.
Why is it called Big Ben?
The name Big Ben originally refers to the 13.5-tonne great bell inside the tower. It is believed to honor Sir Benjamin Hall, the engineer who oversaw the bell's installation.
Can you visit inside Big Ben?
Yes, but visits are restricted to UK residents and must be booked in advance. After renovations, tours are available only for residents, offering access to the tower and clock mechanism.
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