The Tower of London is a historic castle located on the north bank of the River Thames in central London, England. Built in the 11th century by William the Conqueror, it has served as a royal palace, a prison, a fortress, and a treasury over the course of its 900-year history. Today, it is a popular tourist destination and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The Tower of London is known for its iconic White Tower, which was built by William the Conqueror in 1078 as a symbol of his power and to intimidate his subjects. The tower stands 90 feet tall and is made of white limestone. It was originally used as a royal palace, but later served as a prison for high-profile prisoners, including the infamous Anne Boleyn, wife of King Henry VIII.
In addition to the White Tower, the Tower of London complex includes several other buildings and structures, including the Crown Jewels exhibition, the Medieval Palace, and the Tower Green, where many prisoners were executed. Visitors to the Tower of London can take guided tours of the complex, view the Crown Jewels, and explore the museum's many exhibits.
One of the most popular attractions at the Tower of London is the daily Ceremony of the Keys. This traditional ceremony has been performed every night at the Tower of London for over 700 years and involves the locking of the tower's gates. The ceremony is performed by the Yeoman Warders, also known as Beefeaters, who have guarded the Tower of London since the 14th century.
Another famous tradition at the Tower of London is the presence of the ravens. Legend has it that if the ravens ever leave the Tower of London, the kingdom will fall. To prevent this from happening, the Tower of London keeps at least six ravens on its grounds at all times. The ravens are cared for by a team of Ravenmasters, who ensure that they are well-fed and healthy.
The Tower of London has a rich and often gruesome history. It was the site of many famous executions, including those of Anne Boleyn, Lady Jane Grey, and Sir Walter Raleigh. It was also used as a prison for many years, with some prisoners being held in the tower for decades. In the 19th century, the Tower of London was opened to the public as a museum and tourist attraction.
Today, the Tower of London is one of the most popular tourist destinations in London, attracting millions of visitors each year. It is a fascinating and important piece of British history, and a must-see for anyone visiting London.
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