Tower of London

Tower of London. A historic castle and fortress located on the north bank of the River Thames in central London, it is one of the world's most famous and iconic landmarks. Founded towards the end of 1066 as part of the Norman Conquest of England, its complex of buildings has served variously as a royal palace, political prison, armory, treasury, and menagerie. Today, it is cared for by the charity Historic Royal Palaces and is a major tourist attraction, most renowned as the home of the Crown Jewels of the United Kingdom.

History

The fortress was founded by William the Conqueror following his victory at the Battle of Hastings, with the central White Tower begun around 1078. It was significantly expanded under kings Richard the Lionheart, Henry III, and Edward I, who added extensive curtain walls and moats, creating the concentric fortress seen today. Throughout its history, it has been a potent symbol of royal power and a site of major state events, including the imprisonment and execution of figures such as Anne Boleyn, Thomas More, and Lady Jane Grey. During the English Civil War, it was captured by forces loyal to Oliver Cromwell, and in the 20th century, it was used to hold prisoners like Rudolf Hess during the Second World War.

Architecture and layout

The complex covers 12 acres and is defined by its concentric design, with two protective walls and a moat, now dry. The innermost and oldest structure is the White Tower, a massive keep built from Caen stone and an outstanding example of Norman architecture. Key fortifications include the Inner Ward and the Outer Ward, with notable towers such as the Bloody Tower, the Wakefield Tower, and the Traitors' Gate water entrance. Other significant buildings within the walls are the Waterloo Block, which houses the Crown Jewels, the Royal Chapel of St Peter ad Vincula, and the former barracks.

Crown Jewels

The fortress is the permanent home of the Crown Jewels of the United Kingdom, a collection of ceremonial regalia including crowns, sceptres, orbs, swords, and robes used by the British monarchy. The jewels are displayed in the Waterloo Block under armed guard by the Yeomen Warders. Highlights of the collection include St Edward's Crown, used for coronations, the Imperial State Crown, set with the Cullinan II diamond and the St Edward's Sapphire, and the Sovereign's Sceptre with Cross, which contains the largest clear cut diamond in the world, the Cullinan I.

Yeoman Warders and ravens

The fortress is guarded by the Yeomen Warders, commonly known as Beefeaters, who are ceremonial guardians and tour guides, traditionally drawn from the ranks of retired British Armed Forces personnel. According to legend, the safety of the kingdom and the White Tower depends on the presence of at least six ravens. This tradition is taken seriously, with a dedicated Ravenmaster from the Yeomen Warders caring for the birds, which have their wings clipped to ensure they remain on the grounds.

Role and function

Historically, it served as a key royal residence, a state prison, the site of the Royal Mint, and the home of the Royal Menagerie, which formed the basis of the London Zoo. Its role evolved from a strategic fortress to a treasury and arsenal. Today, managed by Historic Royal Palaces, it functions primarily as a museum and one of the United Kingdom's most visited historic sites. It remains a Royal Peculiar under the jurisdiction of a Constable of the Tower, a ceremonial post historically held by notable figures such as the Duke of Wellington, and is also the official regiment headquarters of the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers. Category:Buildings and structures in the London Borough of Tower Hamlets Category:Castles in London Category:World Heritage Sites in the United Kingdom