Big Ben: A Symbol of British Democracy
Big Ben is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the United Kingdom and a symbol of British democracy. Located at the north end of the Houses of Parliament in Westminster, London, this iconic clock tower has been keeping time for the British capital for over 160 years.
History and Construction
The clock tower was designed by architects Charles Barry and Augustus Pugin and was completed in 1859. The clock itself began ticking on May 31, 1859. Contrary to popular belief, "Big Ben" actually refers to the largest bell inside the clock tower, not the clock or the tower itself. The official name of the tower was originally just "Clock Tower," but it was renamed "Elizabeth Tower" in 2012 to mark Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee.
Fun Fact
The clock faces are 23 feet (7 meters) in diameter, and the minute hands are 14 feet (4.3 meters) long. That's longer than a London double-decker bus!
The Bells of Big Ben
The Great Bell, nicknamed "Big Ben," weighs 13.7 tons and is accompanied by four quarter bells. The clock chimes every 15 minutes and has rarely stopped, even during World War II when the tower was hit by German bombs.
Recent Restoration
In 2017, Big Ben entered a period of restoration that lasted until 2022. During this time, the clock faces were carefully cleaned and repaired, and the original Victorian color scheme was restored. The famous "bongs" of Big Ben were largely silenced during this period, ringing only for important national events.
Fun Fact
The clock's accuracy is regulated by a stack of old pennies placed on the pendulum. Adding or removing a penny can change the clock's speed by 0.4 seconds per day!
Visiting Big Ben
While the interior of Elizabeth Tower is not open to the general public, visitors can admire the clock tower from various viewpoints around Westminster. Some of the best spots include Westminster Bridge, South Bank, and Parliament Square.
Cultural Significance
Big Ben has become an enduring symbol of the United Kingdom, featuring in countless films, TV shows, and postcards. Its chimes are famously broadcast by the BBC as a time signal, and the clock tower has witnessed many significant moments in British history, from wartime to royal celebrations.
Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, Big Ben is a must-see landmark that embodies the spirit and heritage of London and the United Kingdom as a whole.