Tower of London

The Tower of London is a historic castle located on the north bank of the River Thames. The White Tower is a quadrangular structure built by William I in 1078. The castle is a large complex with defensive walls and a moat. The castle was originally built as a fortress, royal palace and prison. It was also used as an execution center, torture center, armoury and state treasury. Criminals were brought by boat from the River Thames and taken to the dungeon through the Traitors' Gate. Queen Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard were among the queens executed here. It was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1988.

History of the Tower of London

The Tower of London was built in 1078 by King William I. The aim was to protect the people of London from the Normans and to defend the city from invasions. The construction of the castle began with Cear stones brought from France. Bishop Rochester was the leader of the architecture of the structure. Some writers trace the origin of the castle to Julius Caesar. However, this is a myth. In the 12th century, Richard the Lionheart strengthened the walls surrounding the castle. The moat dug around it was filled with water. Other kings continued to maintain and repair the castle. Oliver Cromwell demolished the palace and abandoned the living quarters. The Tower of London has been the residence of the royal family throughout history.

The Tower of London is administered separately from the City of London. It is guarded by special police officers. Security of the castle has been provided by special officers since ancient times.

Structure of the Tower of London

The oldest member of the Tower of London is the White Tower. Other towers were added over time, creating the structure in its current form. The Tower is one of London's most popular tourist attractions. All the structures in the Tower are listed in alphabetical order:

• Beauchamp Tower
• Bell Tower
• Bloody Tower
• Bowyer Tower
• Brick Tower
• Broad Arrow Tower
• Byward Tower
• Constable Tower
• Cradle Tower
• Develin Tower
• Deveraux Tower
• Flint Tower
• Lanthorn Tower
• Martin Tower
• middle tower
• St. Thomas's Tower
• Salt Tower
• Wakefield Tower
• Wardrobe Tower
• Well Tower
• White Tower

The Tower of London is one of the most important symbols of not only England but also of world history. This structure, which has shaped the city's defense, royal life and the fate of the people for centuries, today sheds light on the past like a history book and offers visitors the opportunity to discover the depths of England's history. The castle, which has been protected internationally by being declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, maintains its importance as a cultural treasure that bears the traces of both the past and the present.