Big ben london tower

Big Ben, the bell of the Palace of Westminster, is one of the most iconic landmarks of London and the United Kingdom.

About this subject

Big Ben is the nickname for the Great Bell of the Elizabeth Tower, located at the north end of the Palace of Westminster in London. Although the term is commonly used to refer to the clock tower, technically Big Ben is the main 13.5-ton bell that strikes the hours. The tower was completed in 1859 and was officially renamed Elizabeth Tower in 2012 to mark the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II.

The tower stands 96 meters tall and houses the world's most famous four-faced clock. Each clock face is 7 meters in diameter and the minute hands are 4.2 meters long. The clock is renowned for its legendary accuracy and resilience, having continued to operate through the bombings of World War II. The original mechanism was designed by Edmund Beckett Denison and is adjusted using old penny coins to maintain precision.

The Big Ben bell was cast by the Whitechapel Bell Foundry in 1858 and cracked during initial tests, leading to a replacement bell that also later cracked. Currently, the bell is rotated so a smaller hammer strikes the undamaged portion, producing its iconic sound. The chimes of Big Ben have been broadcast live by BBC radio since 1923 and are a staple of British programming.

The surroundings of Big Ben include the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Bridge, and the River Thames, forming one of London's most photographed scenes. While access to the tower is restricted to UK residents, visitors can admire its grandeur from the outside and hear the bells across the city. Big Ben underwent extensive renovations between 2017 and 2022, preserving its structure for future generations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall is the Big Ben tower?

The Big Ben tower, officially known as Elizabeth Tower, is 96 meters tall, equivalent to about 16 stories.

Why is it called Big Ben?

The name Big Ben actually refers to the large bell inside the tower. The exact origin is uncertain, but it may honor Sir Benjamin Hall, who oversaw the bell's installation.

Did Big Ben stop working during World War II?

No, Big Ben continued working throughout World War II, even after bombings damaged parts of Parliament. Its accuracy and resilience became a symbol of British resistance.