Big Ben

Big Ben, an iconic symbol of London, stands proudly at the north end of the Palace of Westminster. Known officially as the Elizabeth Tower since 2012, this architectural marvel has captured the imaginations of millions of visitors from around the world. Its history, grandeur, and the resonant chimes of its Great Bell make it a must-visit landmark in the heart of the United Kingdom.

The History of Big Ben

The story of Big Ben begins in the mid-19th century, following the devastating fire of 1834 that destroyed much of the old Palace of Westminster. The new design for the palace, created by Charles Barry, included a clock tower, which was designed by Augustus Pugin in the Gothic Revival style. Construction of the tower began in 1843 and was completed in 1859, making it one of the most recognizable structures in the world.

The tower was originally known as the Clock Tower but was renamed Elizabeth Tower in 2012 to commemorate the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II. Standing at an impressive 316 feet (96 meters) tall, the tower's base is square, measuring 40 feet (12 meters) on each side. It is constructed of brick clad in limestone, with a cast iron spire at the top. The tower's ornate design includes intricate carvings and symbols representing the four nations of the United Kingdom.

The Great Clock and Its Mechanism

The clock within the tower is a masterpiece of engineering and was the largest and most accurate four-faced striking and chiming clock in the world at the time of its completion. The clock was designed by Edmund Beckett Denison and George Airy, the Astronomer Royal, and constructed by clockmakers Edward John Dent and his stepson Frederick Dent.

The clock's dials are 22.5 feet (6.9 meters) in diameter, making them among the largest in the world. Each dial contains 324 pieces of opalescent glass, and the surrounds are gilded. The Latin inscription at the base of each dial reads DOMINE SALVAM FAC REGINAM NOSTRAM VICTORIAM PRIMAM, which translates to O Lord, keep safe our Queen Victoria the First.

The clock's mechanism is known for its reliability, thanks to Denison's invention of the double three-legged gravity escapement. This design ensures the clock remains accurate despite external factors such as weather. The clock can be adjusted by adding or removing pre-decimal pennies from the pendulum, a testament to the ingenuity of its creators.

The Great Bell and Its Chimes

Big Ben is actually the nickname for the Great Bell within the tower, which weighs a staggering 13.5 long tons (13.7 tonnes). The bell was cast by the Whitechapel Bell Foundry and installed in 1858. The origin of the bell's nickname is debated; it may have been named after Sir Benjamin Hall, who oversaw its installation, or after heavyweight boxing champion Benjamin Caunt.

In addition to the Great Bell, there are four quarter bells that chime every quarter hour. The sound of Big Ben's chimes is one of the most recognizable in the world and has been used in countless films and television shows to signify London.

The Tower's Unique Features

One of the tower's unique features is the Ayrton Light, a lantern located above the belfry. This light was added in 1873 and is lit whenever the House of Commons is in session after dark. Originally, it was intended to allow Queen Victoria to see from Buckingham Palace when the Commons were at work.

Inside the tower is an oak-paneled Prison Room, which can only be accessed from the House of Commons. This room was last used in 1880 to imprison Charles Bradlaugh, a newly elected Member of Parliament who refused to swear a religious oath of allegiance to Queen Victoria. Today, the room is occupied by the Petitions Committee, which oversees petitions submitted to Parliament.

Renovations and Conservation

From 2017 to 2021, the clock and tower underwent extensive renovations to preserve their historical integrity and ensure their continued operation. During this period, the bells were mostly silent, with a few exceptions for significant events. The conservation work included the addition of a lift within the tower, making it more accessible for maintenance and visitors.

The tower's original color scheme, which had been altered over the years, was also restored during the renovations. The dials and clock hands, originally painted Prussian blue, were repainted in their historical colors, and the Victorian glass was replaced with faithful reproductions.

Visiting Big Ben

Visiting Big Ben offers a unique glimpse into the history and engineering marvels of the 19th century. While tours of the tower are currently limited to UK residents, the exterior of the tower and the surrounding Palace of Westminster are accessible to all. The sight of Big Ben against the backdrop of the River Thames is a quintessential London experience, and the sound of its chimes is a reminder of the city's rich history.

In conclusion, Big Ben is not just a clock tower; it is a symbol of British culture, history, and engineering excellence. Its chimes have marked the passage of time for over 160 years, and its towering presence continues to inspire awe and admiration in all who visit. Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply a traveler exploring London, a visit to Big Ben is an unforgettable experience.