Big Ben is one of the most famous landmarks in London. The striking of this clock is heard throughout the Kingdom. Big Ben looks especially impressive during parliamentary sessions. During this period, a searchlight is lit on the tower at night.
This unique clock rises 98 meters above the Thames. They have four 23-square-foot dials that face all directions. The minute hand is 14 feet long and the hour hand is 2 feet long.
Big Ben is one of the most accurate clocks in the world. And if the clock begins to rush or lag behind, a coin is placed or removed on its pendulum, which normalizes its activity.
The name Big Ben does not refer to the name of the watch. This is the name of the thirteen-tone bell located inside the clock tower. It was named after the construction manager Sir Benjamin Hall.
The history of London's chimes dates back to 1840, when the architect Charles Barry renovated the Westminster building. It was decided to attach a clock tower to the palace. The tower was designed by the neo-Gothic master - Augustus Pujin.
In 1941, during the Second World War, an incendiary bomb destroyed the premises in which the House of Commons of the British Parliament sat. However, Big Ben was not hurt.
There is a prison cell in the clock tower. However, it is rarely used. The last case was recorded in 1880.
Only citizens of London and titled persons can enter the premises of the clock tower.
But there is nothing better than seeing this miracle with your own eyes! Travel!
