Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament are two of the most iconic landmarks in London. Located on the north bank of the River Thames, they are a symbol of the British democracy and the center of political life in the United Kingdom. Big Ben is the nickname for the bell of the clock tower at the Houses of Parliament, and it is the largest four-faced chiming clock in the world.
The Houses of Parliament were built in the 11th century and have been the home of the UK’s government ever since. The building was rebuilt in the mid-19th century and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the most famous examples of Gothic Revival architecture in the world. The building is composed of two Houses – the House of Commons and the House of Lords – and it is the seat of the British government.
Big Ben is the bell of the clock tower at the Houses of Parliament. It was cast in 1858 and is the largest four-faced chiming clock in the world. The clock is over 96 meters high and has four clock faces, each seven meters in diameter. The clock is known for its accuracy and it has become a symbol of the United Kingdom.
History of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament
The Houses of Parliament have a long and interesting history. The first building on the site was constructed in the 11th century, and it was used as a royal residence. Over the centuries, the building was destroyed and rebuilt several times. In the mid-19th century, the building was redesigned in the Gothic Revival style and it has remained largely unchanged since then.
Big Ben was installed in 1859 and was named after Sir Benjamin Hall, who was the Commissioner of Works at the time. The clock was designed by Edward John Dent and it was the largest four-faced chiming clock in the world at the time. The clock has become a symbol of London and the United Kingdom and is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world.
The Clock Tower
The clock tower at the Houses of Parliament is 96 meters high and has four clock faces, each seven meters in diameter. The clock is known for its accuracy and it is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world. The clock tower is also home to the bell known as Big Ben, which is the largest four-faced chiming clock in the world.
Big Ben
Big Ben is the bell of the clock tower at the Houses of Parliament. It was cast in 1858 and is the largest four-faced chiming clock in the world. The bell is over seven meters tall and weighs 13.7 tons. The bell is rung every hour and is one of the most recognizable sounds in the world.
Visiting Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament
The Houses of Parliament are open to visitors and guided tours are available. The tours allow visitors to explore the building and learn about its history. Visitors can also climb the 334 steps of the clock tower to get a close-up view of Big Ben.
Tips for Visiting Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament
- Plan your visit in advance as tours need to be booked in advance.
- Be aware of the security measures in place and allow plenty of time to get through security.
- Make sure to bring your passport or other photo ID with you as it is required for entry.
- Dress appropriately for the occasion and remember that there is a dress code for the tour.
Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament are two of the most iconic landmarks in London. The building is a symbol of the British democracy and the bell is one of the most recognizable sounds in the world. Visiting the Houses of Parliament is a unique experience and a great way to learn about the history of the United Kingdom.
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