Introduction
The Big Ben clock is one of the most famous landmarks in London, England. It is an iconic symbol of the city and has been featured in countless movies, TV shows, and photographs. Many people travel to London just to see the clock and hear its famous chimes. In this article, we will explore where the Big Ben clock is located and some interesting facts about it.
History of Big Ben
The Big Ben clock is actually the nickname for the Great Bell of the clock tower at the Palace of Westminster in London. The tower was built in 1858 and the Great Bell was cast in 1856. The clock tower was renamed the Elizabeth Tower in 2012 to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee.
Location of Big Ben
The Big Ben clock is located in the Elizabeth Tower at the north end of the Palace of Westminster. The Palace of Westminster is the meeting place of the House of Commons and the House of Lords, which are the two houses of the Parliament of the United Kingdom. The Palace of Westminster is located on the banks of the River Thames and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Tower
The Elizabeth Tower is 96 meters tall and has a total of 11 floors. The clock faces are located on the four sides of the tower and are each 7 meters in diameter. The clock mechanism is located in the clock room on the third floor of the tower. The Great Bell is located in the belfry on the floor above the clock room.
The Clock Mechanism
The clock mechanism of the Big Ben clock is one of the most accurate in the world. It uses a pendulum that is 4 meters long and weighs 300 kilograms. The clock mechanism is wound up three times a week by hand using a set of gears that are located in the clock room.
The Great Bell
The Great Bell, also known as Big Ben, weighs 13.5 tonnes and is made of cast iron. It is the largest bell in the Elizabeth Tower and is struck every hour to mark the time. The sound of the bell can be heard for up to 5 miles away.
The Chimes
The chimes of the Big Ben clock are one of the most recognizable sounds in the world. The clock chimes every 15 minutes and plays a different melody every hour. The chimes are broadcast on the BBC every day at 6pm and are a beloved tradition in the United Kingdom.
The Renovation
The Elizabeth Tower and the Big Ben clock are currently undergoing a renovation project that is scheduled to be completed in 2021. The renovation project includes repairs to the stonework of the tower, the replacement of the roof, and the installation of a new clock mechanism. The Great Bell will also be silent for the duration of the renovation project.
Conclusion
The Big Ben clock is a beloved symbol of London and the United Kingdom. Its history, location, and unique features make it one of the most interesting landmarks in the world. If you are planning a trip to London, make sure to visit the Elizabeth Tower to see the Big Ben clock in person.