The Tower of London

Historic castle 

The Tower of London is a historic castle on the north bank of the River Thames in central London. It’s one of the oldest buildings in the city. The Tower is a visual symbol of the Norman Conquest of England. It was built by William the Conqueror in 1066 as a strong fortress to protect the city. Nowadays it is considered to be the most valuable monument of Medieval military architecture surviving in England.

Purpose of the the Tower of London

Throughout the history the Tower of London was not only a fortress. For many years starting from the Tudor period it was a royal residence. Then, in 16th and 17th centuries it was used as a prison, where lots of political and religious figures were held. The Tower is also known as a place of torture and execution, although only seven people were executed within the Tower. The more common place for executions was the notorious Tower Hill, north of the castle.

Later the Tower of London was the Royal Mint, an armoury, an observatory, a zoo and a treasury. Since the time when it was a zoo, there is still a tradition to keep at least six ravens at the Tower. It is believed that they bring good luck if they stay there. Their wings are cut so that they can’t fly away. They are fed with meat and biscuits every day.

Today the Tower

Today the Tower is one of the country’s most popular tourist attractions. It is a museum where the beautiful jewels of the British royal family are on display. The security of the Tower is ensured by a military garrison and by the “beefeaters” who still wear their picturesque Tudor uniform.

Conclusion

The Tower of London will always be remembered as a symbol of royal power, a fortress for the monarch, and a prison for the monarch’s enemies.