The Tower of London and Tower Bridge
Charged with the remembrance of some of the most dramatic events in London’s history, the castle, located on London’s Tower Hill, was built during the Norman conquest in 1066, having thus survived for nearly a millennium. During early medieval times it served various purposes, such as those of treasury and home of the Crown Jewels; however it was its use as a prison, most notorious during the 16th and 17th Centuries, which earned it its worldwide reputation. Subsequently, the castle became a royal residence, to once more be used as a prison during the first and second World Wars of the 20th Century. Among legendary historical figures held and executed there were Although the grim perception most visitors have of the construction is only partially motivated, it is lucrative in terms of revenues from tourism. The Tower of London is said to be haunted by many prominent figures such as Ann Boleyn and Lady Jane Grey.
Tower Bridge
Adjoining the Tower of London, the internationally renowned bridge, symbolic of London itself, was constructed 120 year ago in a medieval architectonic style, in order to visually complement the Tower. The bridge is composed of two imposingly tall towers, each measuring 65 metres in height, pedestrian walkways and two bascules which are raised in order to allow the passage of sizeable ships on the Thames. Between 2008 and 2012, Tower Bridge underwent a major renovation process and was repainted blue and white, initially being of a pale shade of green. Visitors can learn about the history of the bridge on the premises, through a project called the Tower Bridge Exhibition, through a range of displays including images and films. They can also visit the bridge’s original hydraulic system, which is no longer functional yet stands as an important remainder of the past. To this day, the bridge continues to be probably the most recognised image of London across the world.