In the history of the UK there are many episodes that managed to be preserved in stone, or rather - in architectural structures. The London White Tower or Tower ("Tower" in English and translated as "tower") is precisely such facilities and refers. In addition, this majestic structure has long been one of the British symbols, so the interest of the guests of the kingdom does not stop. The Fortress Tower in London is also one of the oldest structures. In order to understand what the Tower of London is famous for, it is worthwhile to make a short excursion into its history, counted practically for a dozen centuries.
History of the ancient fortress
Let's start with when the Tower of London was founded. According to the surviving documents, the laying of this defensive structure was carried out on the orders of Wilhelm I in 1078. The ruler, who only conquered England, considered it his duty to build a fortress that would frighten the Anglo-Saxons with one of its kind. On the site of the wooden fort appeared impressive dimensions (32x36x30 meters) construction of a solid stone, painted with lime. That's why he was nicknamed the White Tower.
Subsequently, the size of the fort was increased by the construction of powerful fortress walls and several towers, built under King Richard "Lionheart". There was also a deep defensive ditch. If we talk about who built the Tower of London in London, then William I and King Richard can claim the title of founder, as both of their efforts turned the structure into one of the most impregnable in Europe.
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Destination of the White Tower
The history of the Tower of London is shrouded in terrible events that have occurred here since 1190. It was from this moment on that the Tower Fortress functioned like a prison. But the prisoners here did not contain simple ones. The Tower was guarded by aristocrats who had fallen into disgrace, high-ranking traitors, among whom were kings and members of their dynasties. The conclusion could last several months, and several dozen years. Executions here, too, were not uncommon. In the walls of the fortress, many kings, princes and high-ranking officials have completed their journey. The prisoners lower in rank were decapitated on Tower Hill, which towered near the fortress. This spectacle attracted a lot of onlookers. The heads of executed prisoners, put on a stake, after that served as a deterrent for the townspeople, since they were placed on the London Bridge. The bodies were buried in deep cellars under the chapel. According to historians, about 1,500 people were buried in the Tower.
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But there was another destination for the Tower of London. Here in the XIII century there was a zoo. The first inhabitants of the zoo were three leopards, an elephant and a polar bear. These animals were received by kings as gifts. Later the collection expanded, already in 1830 all the inhabitants were moved to Regent's Park. And the White Tower became the department of the royal mint. Here, the arms of the royal army were also manufactured and stored.
The executions ceased under King Charles II. But already during the Second World War people began to die again. They were shot, accused of espionage or treason. And only in 1952 the White Tower lost its prison status.
Current status
Today, the area where the Tower is located is the business and tourist center of London . In the castle itself works a museum, but its main purpose is to protect the treasures of Britain. Tourists do not bypass the landmark, enjoying the scenery of powerful walls, carved windows with bars. Very impressive look and the palace guards, guarding the tower, and flocks of black ravens. They are cherished and cherished here, because the legend of the crows of the Tower of London tells us that along with the disappearance of these birds, disasters will fall on the city.
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