Big Ben
Big Ben, though commonly referred to as the entire clock tower, is actually the nickname for the Great Bell housed within the Elizabeth Tower at the north end of the Palace of Westminster. This iconic structure is a symbol of London and a significant part of British culture.
Design and Construction
The Elizabeth Tower was completed in 1859 and was a part of the design for the new Palace of Westminster by Sir Charles Barry after the old palace was destroyed by fire in 1834. The clock tower was designed in the Gothic Revival style by Augustus Pugin, who was also responsible for the interior design of the Palace. The tower was initially known as the "Clock Tower" but was renamed in 2012 to honor Queen Elizabeth II during her Diamond Jubilee.
The Clock Mechanism
The Elizabeth Tower houses the Great Clock of Westminster, one of the largest clock mechanisms in the world. The clock was designed by clockmaker Edward John Dent and completed by his stepson Frederick Dent. The mechanism has been renowned for its accuracy and intricate design, and the clock features four faces, each 23 feet in diameter.
The Great Bell
The Great Bell, commonly known as Big Ben, weighs over 13 tons and strikes the hour with a unique and deep resonant sound. The first bell, cast by John Warner & Sons, cracked during testing. The replacement bell, cast by the Whitechapel Bell Foundry, also cracked, but the crack was repaired, and the bell is still in use today. The sound of Big Ben is broadcasted by the British Broadcasting Corporation as a symbol of reliable timekeeping.
Cultural Significance
Big Ben is not just a functional piece of architecture; it is deeply embedded in the cultural fabric of the United Kingdom. It serves as an emblem of parliamentary democracy and the enduring traditions of British governance. The image of the Elizabeth Tower is frequently used in visual media to represent London and UK, making appearances in films, literature, and various cultural depictions.
Unique Features and Historical Events
The Elizabeth Tower features an oak-paneled Prison Room, which was last used in 1880 when Charles Bradlaugh, an atheist Member of Parliament, was detained after his refusal to swear an oath of allegiance. The transmission of Big Ben's chimes is a long-standing tradition, with the sound being captured by a microphone and broadcast by the BBC, allowing Londoners to hear the bell strike both live and on the radio.
Preservation and Maintenance
The tower and its clock have undergone numerous restorations to preserve their historical and architectural integrity. These preservation efforts ensure that Big Ben continues to be a prominent feature of the London skyline and a lasting symbol of British heritage.