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Tower of London

See the Crown Jewels, the ravens, Bloody Tower, Medieval Palace, the public outside areas of the Tower of London and magnificent armour displays in the White Tower, including Line of Kings.

England

Tower of London

The Tower of London is one of England’s most iconic structures and a typical example of Norman military architecture. For over 900 years it has dominated the City of London and is still one of the capital’s most prominent landmarks, as well as a world-famous visitor attraction. William the Conqueror built the White Tower in the 1070s to act as both fortress and gateway to the capital, sitting it strategically on the River Thames.

It is now the most complete example of an 11th century fortress palace remaining in Europe. The Tower of London has represented a symbol of royal power ever since and has been the setting for key historical events in European history, including the executions of three English queens.

Official website

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Throughout its long history, the Tower has served as a royal palace and fortress, prison and place of execution, an arsenal, royal mint, a jewel house and even a menagerie.

The Beefeaters and their families live inside the Tower of London – perhaps one of the most exclusive addresses in London. The Tower is really a village in the heart of the City – with its own pub, village green, church and doctor.

 

The presence of ravens at the Tower is protected by legend. It states that if the ravens leave, the Tower would fall and the Kingdom would fall, so Charles II decreed that there must always be at least six.

Stats

Location: London Borough of Tower Hamlets

Country: United Kingdom

Year of Inscription: 1988

UNESCO Criteria: (ii) (iv)

Contact information:

For more information about Tower of London, visit the website or contact visitor information on +44 (0) 20 3166 6000

Exterior image of the White Tower of the Tower of London as seen through an archway.