1. The Tower of London Is Not Its Official Name
Founded by William the Conqueror in 1066, this historic castle is based in the heart of London and is one of the world's most iconic and recognizable landmarks. However, the Tower of London is not its official name. The building’s official title is Her Majesty’s Royal Palace and Fortress of the Tower of London.
2. The Tower of London Was London’s First Zoo
Before the Tower became a prison for humans, it was a prison for animals in the form of London’s first zoo. Known as the ‘Royal Menagerie,’ the Tower housed the royal collection of wild and exotic animals that were gifted to the kings and queens that reigned.
Seeing African elephants, lions, tigers, kangaroos, ostriches, and a polar bear roaming around the grounds wasn't unusual. In 1835 the Duke of Wellington closed the menagerie, and the animals were moved to grounds in Regent’s Park that later became the London Zoo. Today, all that is left of the animals at the Tower are the resident ravens and sculptures of lions and other animals dotted about the grounds.
3. The Tower is Home to the Crown Jewels
One of the many unique attractions at the Tower of London is the Crown Jewels. Officially known as Royal Coronation apparel, the Crown Jewels have been safely stored in the Tower of London since the 15th century.
The collection includes some of the world's most valuable and historic jewels, such as the Imperial State Crown, which the monarch wears at the State Opening of Parliament. The Imperial State Crown boasts 23,578 gemstones and is thought to have a value of between two and four billion pounds!
Other items kept in the Tower include royal robes and jewelry, which are brought out and sent to Westminster Abbey when a new King or Queen is crowned.
4. Resident Ravens are the Guardians of the Tower
Ravens have long been a part of the Tower’s history and are protected by royal decree. When Charles II wanted the ravens removed, he was told that the monarchy would fall, so the ravens stayed and have called the Tower home ever since.
The ravens are cared for by the Tower's raven master, who will regale stories of their role throughout history when you enjoy a free tour of the Tower of London with your pass.
5. The Real Guardians of the Tower are the ‘Beefeaters’
The famous Yeoman Warders have guarded the Tower of London since the 16th century. Also known as the ‘Beefeaters,’ these ceremonial guardians of the Tower were responsible for safeguarding the British crown jewels and looking after any prisoners in the Tower.
Today, Yeoman Warders are selected for their outstanding service in the Armed Forces. They still play the ceremonial role of guardians to the Tower and provide information and guided tours to visitors as they have done since the Victorian era.
Why the name ‘Beefeaters’? The odd name stems from Henry VII, whose personal guards were the first ‘Beefeaters,’ as they were allowed to eat as much beef as they wanted from the King's table.
The bright red and black uniforms of the Yeoman Warder include pure gold thread and are estimated to cost over £7,000 each!
6. The Oldest Military Ceremony in the World Takes Place Every Night
The Tower gates are locked in a historic military tradition known as the Ceremony of The Keys every evening. At precisely 9:53 pm, the Chief Yeoman Warder, accompanied by an armed escort of the Queen’s Guards, set off to lock all the gates carrying a lantern in one hand and the Queen’s Keys in another.
The evening ritual has continued for over 700 years without fail - the faithful Yeoman Warders did their job for Queen and country throughout the Great London Fire, the Plague, and both World Wars.
ALL CREDITS TO londonpass.com...
24 авг 2024
