Tower of London, London

The Tower of London is an iconic fortress situated in the heart of the city of London, United Kingdom. With a history stretching back over 1,000 years, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has been a royal palace, an armory, a treasury, the home of the Royal Mint, a public records office, and is home to the Crown Jewels of England. Today, it stands as a compelling museum, attracting millions of visitors from around the globe each year.

Constructed by William the Conqueror in the 1070s, the Tower of London has played a prominent role in English history. It has been besieged several times; whoever controlled the Tower controlled the country. Over the centuries, it has expanded from a simple wooden enclosure to the complex of buildings we see today, encompassing the White Tower, a symbol of oppression and power throughout history.

The Tower has also been notorious as a place of imprisonment and execution. Figures such as Anne Boleyn and Sir Thomas More met their ends within its walls, and it has housed various other prisoners, from disgraced aristocrats to current prisoners of war. The Yeoman Warders, also known as Beefeaters, guard the Tower and serve as tour guides, sharing stories and myths, including those of the ravens. Legend has it that should the ravens ever leave the Tower, the kingdom will fall.

In its current role as a museum, the Tower of London displays the Crown Jewels, an awe-inspiring collection of regalia, and symbols of the British monarchy, including crowns, scepters, orbs, and ceremonial swords. The Jewel House at the Tower has been home to the Crown Jewels since the 1300s and continues to mesmerize visitors with its opulent display.

The Tower also offers a glimpse into medieval life, with historical reenactments and the Royal Armouries' collection of arms and armor. Visitors can explore various towers, ramparts, and the infamous Bloody Tower, enriching their understanding of London's and Britain's tumultuous past.