When people think of London, one of the first images that often comes to mind is the magnificent clock tower at the north end of the Palace of Westminster. But did you know that most people call it by the wrong name? That’s right—the famous structure is often called Big Ben, but that name actually refers to something else. Let’s dive into the fascinating history of this iconic landmark and uncover its real name!
The Real Name of the Tower
The towering structure we all love and admire is officially called the Elizabeth Tower. However, it wasn’t always known by this name. When it was completed in 1859, it was simply referred to as the Clock Tower. It wasn’t until 2012, during the celebrations of Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee (marking 60 years of her reign), that the tower was renamed in her honour.
So, if “Big Ben” isn’t the tower’s name, what is it?
What is Big Ben?
Big Ben is actually the nickname for the massive Great Bell housed inside the tower. This bell is famous for its deep, resounding chime that can be heard far and wide. The Great Bell weighs an impressive 13.7 tonnes (that’s about the same as two elephants!). It strikes the hour, while smaller bells chime the quarters.
There’s some mystery about how the bell got its nickname. Some say it was named after Sir Benjamin Hall, a large man who was the Commissioner of Works when the bell was installed. Others believe it could have been inspired by a popular heavyweight boxer of the time, Benjamin Caunt. Whichever story is true, “Big Ben” has stuck ever since.
A Tower Full of History
The Elizabeth Tower, designed by architects Charles Barry and Augustus Pugin, was part of the rebuilding of the Palace of Westminster after a devastating fire in 1834. The Gothic Revival-style tower is an engineering marvel and a masterpiece of design.
Here are some fun facts about the tower:
- The clock faces are made of opalescent glass, and each dial is over 7 metres in diameter.
- The hour hand is 2.7 metres long, while the minute hand stretches an incredible 4.2 metres.
- The tower stands 96 metres tall (that’s roughly the height of 21 double-decker buses stacked on top of each other!.
Why is Big Ben So Famous?
Big Ben isn’t just a clock or a bell—it’s a symbol of Britain’s history, culture, and resilience. Its chimes are broadcast on the BBC, and they’ve become synonymous with important moments in British history. Even during the Blitz in World War II, when London was heavily bombed, Big Ben continued to ring, inspiring hope and courage.
Restoration and Modern Challenges
Over the years, the tower has undergone significant maintenance to ensure its safety and functionality. In 2017, it was closed for an extensive renovation project that lasted until 2022. The work included repairs to the clock mechanism, restoration of the stonework, and modern upgrades like energy-efficient lighting.
Despite these challenges, the Elizabeth Tower remains one of the most recognised and beloved landmarks in the world.
Things You May Not Know
- It’s Leaning: Over time, the tower has developed a slight tilt of about 0.26 degrees to the north-west. Don’t worry, though—it’s stable and regularly monitored!
- It Was Once Silent: In 1976, the clock stopped for maintenance, and the bell remained silent for nine months.
- It Survived a Bomb: During World War II, a bomb destroyed part of the Commons chamber in the Palace of Westminster, but the tower was left standing.
Why Names Matter
Many people mistakenly call the tower “Big Ben,” but this shows how nicknames can sometimes overshadow official titles. Learning its real name—Elizabeth Tower—helps us appreciate the deeper history and significance behind this beloved landmark. Next time you talk about it, impress your friends by explaining the difference!
Plan Your Visit
Seeing the Elizabeth Tower up close is a must if you’re ever in London. Although you can’t climb it unless you’re a UK resident and book a tour, you can still admire its beauty from the outside. Remember to time your visit to hear Big Ben’s famous chimes!
Conclusion
With its iconic clock and mighty Big Ben, the Elizabeth Tower is more than just a building—it’s a piece of British heritage that connects the past with the present. By learning its real name and story, we can celebrate the rich history behind this architectural marvel.
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