The Tower of London, officially known as Her Majesty's Royal Palace and Fortress of the Tower of London, is an iconic historical monument in the heart of London. It has served numerous purposes throughout its long history, from a royal palace to a prison, and today, it's one of the most popular tourist attractions in the United Kingdom.
History
- Foundation: The initial construction of the Tower of London began in 1066 under the reign of William the Conqueror. It was intended as a fortress and a symbol of Norman power, known as the White Tower.
- Expansion: Over the centuries, the Tower expanded with additional fortifications, buildings, and towers. It became a complex of structures serving various purposes.
- Role as a Royal Palace: Initially a royal residence, it housed monarchs like King Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth I in their youth.
- Prison: The Tower is infamous for its role as a prison, where many notable figures were imprisoned, including Anne Boleyn, Sir Walter Raleigh, and Guy Fawkes. It was also the site of numerous executions.
- Treasury: The Crown Jewels have been stored at the Tower since the 17th century, making it one of the most secure places in England.
- Armory and Mint: For centuries, the Tower functioned as a royal armory and even housed the Royal Mint from 1279 to 1810.
Architectural Features
- White Tower: The central keep, built by William the Conqueror, is a formidable structure with its white walls, giving the Tower its name.
- The Walls and Towers: The fortress is surrounded by two concentric rings of defensive walls and contains several towers like the Bloody Tower, Beauchamp Tower, and Salt Tower.
- The Chapel of St John: Located within the White Tower, it is one of the oldest churches in London.
Modern Uses
- The Tower now serves primarily as a tourist attraction, hosting millions of visitors each year.
- It is also the home of the Yeomen Warders, also known as Beefeaters, who guard the Tower and conduct tours.
- Ceremonial events like the Ceremony of the Keys, the nightly locking up of the Tower, continue to be performed.
UNESCO World Heritage Site
In 1988, the Tower of London was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its outstanding universal value as a symbol of the history of England and the United Kingdom.
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