Big Ben

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Big Ben, officially known as the Great Bell of the clock at the north end of the Palace of Westminster in London, is one of the most iconic landmarks in the United Kingdom. Completed in 1859, it stands as a symbol of British history and governance. The clock tower itself was renamed the Elizabeth Tower in 2012 to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee, but many still refer to it as Big Ben, which originally referred only to the largest of the tower's clock bells. The tower reaches a height of 316 feet (96 meters) and is known for its stunning Gothic Revival architecture, designed by Augustus Pugin.

The clock mechanism is a remarkable engineering feat, capable of keeping time within just a few seconds per day. Its face is adorned with intricate details and features a total of four clock faces, each measuring 22.5 feet (6.9 meters) in diameter. The movement of the clock is powered by a combination of weights and a pendulum, which swings in an architectural relationship with the precision of quartz timekeeping. Big Ben’s chimes are familiar to millions around the world, marking the hour with a deep, resonating toll. The distinctive sound of the bells ringing serves not only as an announcement of the time but also as a cultural reference in various forms of media.

Surrounded by the lush green space of Parliament Square, Big Ben attracts millions of visitors each year, who come to admire its beauty and historical significance. The landmark often features prominently in photographs and is frequently used as a backdrop for various events and celebrations. In recent years, the tower has undergone substantial restoration work to maintain its structural integrity and preserve its historic elements, ensuring that Big Ben continues to be a vital part of London’s skyline and a cherished symbol of British identity for generations to come.

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Not Just a Clock: Big Ben is actually the name of the Great Bell inside the clock tower. The tower itself is now officially called the Elizabeth Tower, named in honor of Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee in 2012.

Tower Height: The Elizabeth Tower, which houses Big Ben, stands at 96 meters tall. This height makes it one of the tallest clock towers in the United Kingdom.

Famous Chimes: The chimes of Big Ben are famous worldwide, sounding on the hour and quarter-hour. The sound is often used in films and television as a representation of London.

Clock Mechanism: The clock mechanism of Big Ben was designed by Edmund Beckett Denison, and the first time it was set to run was in 1859. It requires manual winding three times a week.

Bomb Damage: During World War II, the tower was damaged by bombing in 1941. However, Big Ben remained operational and continued to chime, becoming a symbol of resilience for Londoners.

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