The Tower of London is a historic castle complex on the River Thames in London. It served as a prison, home for Crown Jewels, menagerie, and armory. Visitors can see exhibits, including writings and drawings of prisoners. The Beefeaters and crows are notable features.
The Tower of London is a historic castle complex located on the banks of the River Thames in London, England. It has historically served a variety of functions, ranging from a prison for high-profile prisoners, including Elizabeth I, to a permanent home for England’s Crown Jewels. The Tower complex is open to visitors and there are many exhibits of historical interest on the site. Many visitors to London enjoy stopping by the complex during their visit.
The formal name of the Tower is Her Majesty’s Royal Palace and Fortress the Tower of London, although this name is a bit of a misnomer, as there are actually a number of towers in the complex. Perhaps most famous is the White Tower, built in the middle of the site by William the Conqueror in 1078. Fortifications were added by both Richard the Lionheart and Henry III, creating the complex of wall, tower and moat that visitors can see Today. Henry III also transformed part of the structure into a Royal Residence, although it is no longer used for this purpose.
The Tower of London is perhaps one of the most famous fortifications in London due to its long and complex history. It is probably best known for its function as a prison and execution site for high-ranking prisoners. Many of these prisoners were brought to the Tower through Traitor’s Gate, a water-level entrance to the Thames which allows people to be discreetly ushered in without attracting public attention. Many prisoners spent long periods of time in the Tower and many of their writings and drawings from these periods can be seen on display.
The hangings were carried out on Tower Hill, an elevated site to the northwest of the site. Some executions were carried out inside the Tower complex; Anne Boleyn, for example, was executed on Tower Green. Undoubtedly, the walls were once used to display the heads of executed criminals, a common practice in the Middle Ages.
In the 1300s, the Tower of London also became the official holding place for the Crown Jewels. It was also briefly a menagerie, mint and armory. Money and gold bars were also stored there, presumably because it is extremely safe.
Two features of the Tower often stand out to guests. One is the traditional guard, the Beefeaters, who are tasked with guarding the complex and providing assistance to visitors. Beefeaters often lead tours for guests. Another distinguishing feature is the crows found on the site. Birds are said to be a symbol of the British monarchy; presumably, the monarchy will fall if the ravens fly away.
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