Big ben london tower

Big Ben is the iconic bell inside the Elizabeth Tower at the Palace of Westminster in London, one of the most recognized landmarks of the United Kingdom.

About this subject

Big Ben, officially the Great Bell, is housed in the Elizabeth Tower at the Palace of Westminster in London. The tower was completed in 1859 and stands 96 meters tall. Its popular name, Big Ben, originally referred only to the bell but now encompasses the entire structure. The bell weighs about 13.5 tons and was cast by the Whitechapel Bell Foundry. Its chime is renowned for accuracy, regulated by a pendulum mechanism adjusted with penny coins.

The tower is a symbol of British democracy and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During World War II, the Parliament was bombed, but Big Ben continued to chime, becoming a symbol of resilience. The clock on the tower is the largest four-faced chiming clock in the world. Each dial is 7 meters in diameter, and the numerals are about 60 cm high.

Currently, the tower is undergoing renovations started in 2017, expected to finish in 2021 but extended. During this period, the bell remained silent except for special occasions like New Year's Eve and Remembrance Day. Visitors can hear the chime live through BBC broadcasts, which use it as a time marker.

The neo-Gothic design of the tower was created by Augustus Pugin. The structure is a striking example of Victorian architecture. Nighttime lighting highlights its ornate details. Big Ben is one of London's most photographed landmarks, appearing in countless films and series.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Big Ben the tower or the bell?

Originally, Big Ben was the nickname of the great bell inside the tower. Over time, the name came to refer to the entire tower, which has been officially called the Elizabeth Tower since 2012.

How old is Big Ben?

The tower was completed in 1859, so it is over 160 years old. The bell was installed in the same year.

Why is Big Ben under renovation?

The renovation, started in 2017, aims to restore the structure, repair weather damage, and modernize systems. The work includes cleaning the stonework and overhauling the clock mechanism.