- Big Ben
- The official Big Ben page for UK Parliament. Discover the latest news about the Elizabeth Tower conservation project, and fascinating facts and history about iconic Big Ben, probably the world's most famous clock.
Big Ben is one of London's most popular tourist attractions, visited by around 2 million tourists annually. Along with the London Eye, Buckingham Palace, and Tower Bridge, it is an iconic symbol of London. It has appeared in various works, including movies, dramas, and novels, and has established itself as an image representing London.
Big Ben, a Symbol of Britain
Big Ben is an important architectural structure that symbolizes British politics and history. It is a symbol of pride for British citizens and a representative image showcasing Britain's traditions and values. The sound of Big Ben's bell is broadcast live around the world through BBC Radio, demonstrating Britain's global presence.
History of Big Ben
Big Ben was completed in 1859 and was built as a symbol of Britain's technological industrial revolution at the time. Since then, it has become an iconic architectural landmark in London. Originally known as "Westminster Tower," it was officially renamed Big Ben in 2012 to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee, marking her 60th year on the throne.
Structure of Big Ben
1. Victorian Gothic Architecture
○ Big Ben boasts a magnificent size, standing 96.3m tall with a diameter of 7m. Its beautiful exterior, designed in the Victorian Gothic style, enhances London's cityscape.
○ At night, it is illuminated, adorning the London night sky and playing a crucial role in creating London's beautiful night view.
2. Four Massive Clocks
○ Each of the four faces of the tower features a massive clock with a diameter of 7m and weighing 3 tons.
○ It underwent a major renovation from 2017 to 2022, receiving a fresh makeover. Now, it tells time with even greater accuracy.
3. 13.5-ton Bell
○ Inside the tower are 11 bells, with the largest weighing a remarkable 13.5 tons.
○ The bell's chime, which rings every 15 minutes, is a familiar sound to Londoners and serves as a timekeeper for the city.
Hidden Stories of Big Ben
1. Origin of the Name Big Ben
○ The most plausible explanation for the origin of the name Big Ben is that it came from the nickname of Sir Benjamin Hall, a heavyweight boxer in London at the time.
○ Sir Benjamin Hall was known for his large physique and loud voice, and it's said that his voice was similar to the sound of Big Ben's bell, leading to the nickname.
2. Renovation from 2017 to 2022
○ Big Ben underwent a major renovation that lasted for five years, from 2017.
○ Not only were the internal machinery of the tower repaired, but the external stonework was also meticulously restored. During this process, state-of-the-art technology was utilized to enhance Big Ben's accuracy.
3. Commemorating Queen Elizabeth II's 60th Anniversary
○ In 2012, to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee, Big Ben's official name was changed to "Elizabeth Tower."
○ This was a special event held to honor Queen Elizabeth II's dedicated service and demonstrates how important Big Ben is to the British people.
Interesting Facts about Big Ben
1. Big Ben's Bell Doesn't Actually Sound Like E
○ The sound of Big Ben's bell is actually closer to B♭, not E.
○ This is due to the bell's pitch changing over time due to extended use, and it's considered one of Big Ben's unique charms.
2. Big Ben Has Never Stopped
○ Despite being damaged during World War II by German air raids, Big Ben has never stopped chiming.
○ On May 10, 1941, part of the tower was destroyed by a German air raid, but the bell kept ringing.
○ This event is remembered as a symbol of Big Ben's resilience and Britain's toughness.
3. Big Ben Often Appears in Movies and Dramas
○ Big Ben often appears in movies and dramas as an image representing London.
○ Some notable examples include 'Sherlock Holmes,' 'Mary Poppins,' and 'James Bond' films.
○ In these movies and dramas, Big Ben plays a crucial role in showcasing London's beauty and history.
4. Big Ben's Chimes Are Broadcast Live on Radio
○ Big Ben's chimes are broadcast live around the world every hour on BBC Radio.
○ This not only serves to inform the world of British time but also plays a role in disseminating British traditions and culture.
5. Big Ben Is Beloved by the British People
○ Big Ben is a cherished symbol for the British people.
○ Big Ben is a significant architectural landmark that symbolizes British politics, history, and culture, and is a source of pride for the British people.
○ Big Ben not only tells time for British citizens but also serves as a sturdy pillar of support in their lives.
Tips for Visiting Big Ben
○ Since Big Ben is one of London's most popular tourist attractions, it's recommended to book in advance before visiting.
○ The interior of Big Ben Tower reopened to the public in 2022, offering the chance to experience Big Ben's history and structure firsthand.
○ There are various tourist attractions around Big Ben, such as the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, and Buckingham Palace, so it's recommended to visit them together.
Comments0