Tower of London Facts

Imbued with nearly a millennium's worth of history, the Tower of London stands as an iconic symbol of Britain's rich past.

It is a site that has played host to many significant events, serving variously as a royal palace, prison, treasury, and even a menagerie. In this article, we delve into the intriguing construction details of the Tower, the optimal times for visiting, lesser-known facts, curiosities, and how to enhance your exploration of the surrounding area using the Questo app's interactive games.

Construction Details

The Tower of London, officially known as Her Majesty's Royal Palace and Fortress of the Tower of London, began as a single castle keep - the White Tower. Commissioned by William the Conqueror shortly after his 1066 invasion, the Tower was designed to awe, dismay, and terrify Londoners while also serving as a grand palace for the Normans.

The White Tower, constructed from Caen stone imported from north-west France, was a statement of William's power, standing at 27.5 meters high. Over subsequent centuries, monarchs added to the fortifications, creating a complex of smaller towers, walls, and a moat.

Best Time to Visit

The Tower of London is open to the public year-round, with the exception of select holidays. Summer tends to be the busiest time of year, so if you wish to avoid larger crowds, consider visiting in the late winter or early spring. Weekday mornings are typically less crowded than afternoons.

Exploring with Questo

Your journey doesn't have to stop at the Tower's walls. The area surrounding the Tower of London is brimming with historical treasures waiting to be discovered. Using the Questo app, you can engage with the history of the location interactively. The app transforms your exploration into a captivating game, leading you to unexpected sights and revealing hidden narratives of the Tower and its vicinity.

Fun Facts

1. The Tower has had various purposes throughout history, including serving as a mint, a menagerie, a treasury, an armory, and a public records office.

2. The Tower of London is home to the Crown Jewels. These are still in use by the monarchy and contain some of the most extraordinary diamonds in the world.

3. Since the 13th century, the Tower has housed a group of ravens. Legend has it that if the ravens were to leave, the Crown and Britain itself would fall.

Curiosities

The Tower of London's history is awash with tales of intrigue and drama. It was the execution site of three English queens – Anne Boleyn, Catherine Howard, and Lady Jane Grey. The Tower also served as a prison for many high-profile prisoners, including Sir Walter Raleigh and Elizabeth I before she became queen.

Moreover, the Tower has been the site of numerous attempted thefts of the Crown Jewels. Perhaps the most famous is Thomas Blood's daring 1671 attempt, which saw him get as far as the Wharf with the royal regalia before being captured.

Conclusion

The Tower of London is a captivating portal into the tapestry of British history, laden with tales of power, betrayal, and wealth. Enhance your visit and the exploration of the surrounding area with the Questo app. This app guides you through an immersive, interactive adventure, revealing the hidden corners and stories of this historic site. A visit to the Tower offers a deep understanding of Britain's past and a treasure trove of tales to engage history enthusiasts, curious travelers, and adventure seekers alike.