subject: Big Ben- A Famous Bell With A Story To Tell [print this page] Easily one of the most charming and alluring cities in the world, London, it seems, has goods to attract thousands of visitors to its shores on a regular basis. The architectural significance of the city is a striking feature that is a reflection on the history of the city and its culture. Some of the buildings which can be spotted in the city have been built several decades ago. The Buckingham Palace, the House of Parliament, the Marble Arch, the Admiralty Arch and Big Ben are but a few of the many interesting architectural finds London offers the discerning traveler.
Most of us, who have heard tales of Big Ben and have not actually had the chance to travel to England and see the attraction itself, might be under the impression that Big Ben refers to the Westminster Clock Tower whereas the name actually refers to the enormous bell which is located within the tower. The tower itself is an iconic landmark that is over 150 years old. The clock first started ticking on the 31st of May 1859 and has been functional ever since. Recognized as one of the tallest free-standing constructs in the world, the tower has four clock faces which are visible from almost anywhere in the vicinity.
Big Ben, the popular hour bell that was produced at Whitechapel Bell Foundry, is a truly giant product which weighs approximately 13 tons and is well over 7 feet tall. According to records Big Ben was manufactured in 1858 after many years of planning and careful contemplation. It is said that the wagon carrying the bell was powered by no less than 16 horses. In order to get the bell up to its 200 feet above ground level perch, dozens of construction workers are said to have battled for the best part of 18 hours.
Millennium Gloucester Hotel London Kensington is one of the leading 4 star hotels in London that offers comfortable and centralized accommodation to their guests. This premier London Kensington Hotel also provides convenient links to many of the citys popular tourist attractions, ensuring a truly memorable holiday full of fond memories.
