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Tower of London

The Tower of London was built by William the Conqueror in 1078 after the Norman conquest. It was meant as protection for the inhabitants of London . However, it was not the first fortification built around the same area, the first being a fortress built in Roman times by the emperor Claudius. Over the years, the Tower has served as a fort, prison, palace, place of execution, zoo, observatory, and, most famously, as the site where the Crown Jewels are kept. As a prison, the Tower has had some very prominent occupants, including Anne Boleyn, Catherine Howard, Elizabeth I, and Rudolf Hess. There are 21 towers in the entire Tower complex.

Visitors may see any of the towers, and sites such as the Royal Armories and the Traitors' Gate. Of course, the British Crown Jewels are not to be missed. While at the Tower, they will see in person the Yeomen Warders, also known as the Beefeaters, who man the tower and serve as tour guides. Visitors may also see the eight ravens of the Tower, which are being kept in deference to an ancient legend. As long as the ravens remain in the Tower, Britain is safe from invasion.

Address: Tower Hill
Telephone: 0870 7567 070


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