tower of london

The Tower of London, officially named His Majesty's Royal Palace and Fortress of the Tower of London, is a historic castle located on the north bank of the River Thames in London. It was founded in 1066 as part of the Norman Conquest. The central keep, known as the White Tower, was built by William the Conqueror around 1078 and gave the entire complex its name. The Tower has served multiple roles throughout history including a royal palace, fortress, prison, treasury, armory, royal mint, public records office, and the home of the Crown Jewels of England. The Tower is a complex of several buildings set within two concentric rings of defensive walls and a moat. It was expanded mainly under kings Richard I, Henry III, and Edward I in the 12th and 13th centuries, and retains much of that medieval structure despite later modifications. Its role in English history is significant as it was often besieged and its control was crucial for ruling the country. It was used as a prison from 1100 until 1952, with famous prisoners including Elizabeth I before her reign. The Tower also served as a royal residence in its early history and was a symbol of Norman power imposed on London. Today, it is a major tourist attraction known for its Crown Jewels exhibition and the historic Ceremony of the Keys, a nightly locking ritual that has taken place for 700 years. The Tower of London is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of England’s most iconic monuments, representing both royal authority and the nation's history.