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Big Ben, a 316 feet-long-clock tower, is located at the House of Commons of the British Parliament House at the Palace of Westminster. It is one of the greatest attractions of the London. The most recognizable feature of the tower is the Great clock, a wonder mechanical work made by the Whitechapel Bell Foundry. The immense 13 ton bell is the highlight of the tower, and is the biggest bell to be made by the Whitechapell foundation till date. It took 13 long years to complete the construction of this unique Gothic construction, and was finished in 1856. It is believed to have derived its name from the First Commissioner of Works, Sir Benjamin Hall.
The clocks on Big Ben have a face with a diameter of 7 meters. The minutes hands of Big Ben are 14 feet long, and the spaces between the minute marks are 1 feet wide. The figures themselves are 2 feet long. A light on Big Ben is lit to indicate that the Parliament is in session. The total mass of the clock mechanism, which involves old pennies as counterweights to ensure immaculate time, is over 5 tons.
Big Ben Tours is a famous landmark in London, and features prominently in all London tourist programs. It can be easily seen from the London Eye, and also provides a wonderful sight from the all Thames Cruises. Special tours to Big Ben can be undertaken subject to prior permissions. An international tourist has to write at least 3 months in advance to the address given below to secure permission:
Clock Tower Tours
Parliamentary Works Services
Directorate
1 Canon Row
London
London Tourist Attractions |
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