15 Fascinating Facts About Big Ben

Introduction:

Big Ben, one of London’s most iconic landmarks, is a symbol of the city’s rich history and culture. Standing tall and proud, this impressive clock tower has captured the imagination of visitors and locals alike for centuries. In this article, we will delve into 15 fascinating facts about Big Ben that will leave you amazed and intrigued.

Fact 1: The Name Big Ben

Contrary to popular belief, “Big Ben” actually refers to the bell inside the clock tower, not the tower itself. The bell was named after Sir Benjamin Hall, the Chief Commissioner of Works at the time the tower was completed in 1859.

Fact 2: The Tower’s Official Name

While most people refer to it as Big Ben, the tower is officially known as the Elizabeth Tower. It was renamed in 2012 in honor of Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee.

Fact 3: The Tower’s Height

The Elizabeth Tower stands at an impressive height of 316 feet (96 meters) and is one of the tallest clock towers in the world. The tower has four clock faces, each measuring 23 feet (7 meters) in diameter.

Fact 4: The Clock Faces

The clock faces on Big Ben are the largest in the United Kingdom and are even bigger than the clocks on St. Paul’s Cathedral. The minute hands alone are over 14 feet (4.3 meters) long.

Fact 5: The Chimes

The famous chimes of Big Ben have been broadcast on the BBC World Service since 1923. The chimes are often used as a symbol of London and are heard by millions of people around the world.

Fact 6: The Bell’s Size

The Great Bell of Big Ben, housed within the tower, weighs a whopping 13.5 tons. It is one of the largest bells in the United Kingdom and rings every hour to mark the time.

Fact 7: The Bell’s Crack

Despite its impressive size and weight, the Great Bell has had its fair share of issues over the years. In 1858, just two years before the tower was completed, the bell cracked during testing and had to be recast.

Fact 8: The Clock’s Accuracy

The clock mechanism inside Big Ben is incredibly accurate and has only been stopped a handful of times for maintenance and repairs. It is regulated by a stack of old pennies placed on the pendulum to adjust the time.

Fact 9: The Illumination

Big Ben was originally illuminated by gas lamps but was later converted to electric lighting in 1906. The clock faces are now illuminated at night, providing a stunning sight for visitors and locals alike.

Fact 10: The Restoration

In recent years, Big Ben has undergone a significant restoration project to ensure its longevity for future generations. The restoration involved repairing the clock faces, refurbishing the mechanism, and repainting the tower.

Fact 11: The Tower’s Lean

Due to its construction on marshy ground, the Elizabeth Tower has a slight lean that is visible to the naked eye. The lean is not a cause for concern and has been monitored and maintained over the years.

Fact 12: The Vibrations

When Big Ben chimes, the vibrations can be felt throughout the entire tower. The clock’s mechanism is so powerful that it can cause the floor and walls of the tower to vibrate with each strike of the bell.

Fact 13: The Surrounding Area

Big Ben is situated in the heart of Westminster, surrounded by other famous landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey. The area is steeped in history and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

Fact 14: The Timekeeping

Big Ben has been keeping time for over 160 years and has only had a few minor disruptions in its service. The clock has withstood the test of time and continues to be a reliable and accurate timekeeper for London.

Fact 15: The Symbolism

Big Ben is more than just a clock tower – it is a symbol of London and a testament to the city’s resilience and strength. The tower has withstood wars, revolutions, and the passage of time, standing as a beacon of hope and endurance for all who gaze upon it.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Big Ben is a truly remarkable structure that has captured the hearts and imaginations of people around the world. From its impressive height and size to its historic significance and enduring legacy, Big Ben will continue to be a symbol of London for generations to come. Next time you find yourself in the bustling streets of London, take a moment to admire this iconic landmark and appreciate the 15 fascinating facts that make Big Ben truly one of a kind.