Surprising Facts You Might Not Know About London’s Iconic Big Ben

Big Ben is perhaps the most recognizable landmark in the United Kingdom, standing tall at the north end of the Palace of Westminster in London. However, there is much more to this historic structure than meets the eye. One of the most common misconceptions is the name itself; 'Big Ben' actually refers to the Great Bell inside the tower, not the tower itself. The structure was officially renamed the Elizabeth Tower in 2012 to honor the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II. Before that, it was simply known as the Clock Tower.

Completed in 1859, the tower is a masterpiece of Victorian Gothic architecture designed by Augustus Pugin. Standing at 315 feet (96 meters) tall, it has survived the bombings of World War II and the test of time, though it does have a slight lean of about 0.04 degrees. The clock is world-renowned for its accuracy, which is maintained through a surprisingly low-tech method: a stack of old penny coins placed on the pendulum to adjust its speed. Adding or removing a single penny can change the clock's speed by 0.4 seconds per day.

Recently, the tower underwent a massive five-year renovation project that was completed in 2022. During this time, the clock faces were restored to their original Prussian blue color, replacing the black paint that had been applied in the 1930s to hide the effects of air pollution. The bells were largely silent during the restoration, making their return a significant event for Londoners. Whether you are interested in its engineering, its history, or its role as a symbol of British democracy, Big Ben remains a fascinating subject. Its chimes are broadcast globally, and it continues to be a focal point for New Year's Eve celebrations, proving that even after 160 years, it is still the heart of London.

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