Exploring the Shadowy Past of the Tower of London

In the heart of London stands a fortress shrouded in both history and infamy—the Tower of London. The Tower of London tours will lead you to discover its mysterious past. With its 21 towers, it looms as England’s most renowned and notorious stronghold, once the abode of those who dared oppose the Crown. While today, it symbolizes British heritage and has attained UNESCO World Heritage status since 1988, its origins tell a tale of foreign rule. Established in 1080 by William the Conqueror, Duke of Normandy, following his victory over Harold, the Anglo-Saxon king, at the Battle of Hastings in 1066, the Tower of London was initially a symbol of Norman supremacy.

The tower’s first structure, later known as the White Tower from the 13th century onwards and now serving as the complex’s primary building, served to oversee access to the Thames and assert Norman dominance. Subject to continuous maintenance and never falling into disuse, it still stands today, showcasing its impregnable solidity. Hence, it is where the Crown Jewels of England are safeguarded. Yet, in the past, it has also functioned as a royal palace, state archive, royal mint, and, on numerous occasions, an inescapable prison.

The Prison of the Crown’s Enemies

For centuries, the Tower of London cast its imposing shadow over medieval London’s skyline, commanding deference from the populace. Its entrance was on the second of its three floors, with the stair ramp designed to be quickly removed in the event of an attack. A prime example of medieval architecture serving dual military and political functions, the Tower of London faced several sieges. However, its sinister reputation as a prison outweighed its renown as a fortress.

Throughout its history, the tower housed enemies of the state, such as Thomas More, imprisoned in 1534 and later executed, or inconvenient relatives of the royal family, like Anne Boleyn, Henry VIII’s second wife, who was also beheaded here, along with Catherine Howard and Lady Jane Grey. In total, four Queens of England were prisoners here, and only one, Elizabeth I (imprisoned by Bloody Mary), emerged with her head still intact. While capital executions were not frequent (the most used gallows were elsewhere), the tower witnessed its share of dark episodes.

One of the most enduring mysteries surrounding the tower involves the fate of the two princes, Edward and Richard, sons of Edward IV of York. Amidst the tumultuous War of the Roses, the young brothers, aged 12 and 9 respectively, were confined to the tower in 1483. They disappeared without a trace. While there is no definitive evidence they were killed here, the tower that housed them (one of many within the fortress) was later dubbed the Bloody Tower. An apt name, nonetheless. For those imprisoned in the Tower of London, death could be a release.

The Crown Jewels

Despite the tower’s evolution over time, it remains a repository of England’s regal treasures. From its inception, the structure was modified to meet the evolving needs of the monarchy. Initially a fortress rendered obsolete by technological advancements, it retained its significance as one of England’s seats of power. A royal residence until the 17th century, the site of Her Majesty’s Mint until the early 19th century, and even a private zoo until 1835, the tower continued to play a central role in England’s affairs.

Since 1303, the tower has been home to the Crown Jewels, transferred here after a thief stole them from Westminster Abbey, deeming it the safest location in the realm. Today, the Tower of London houses 23,578 precious objects, including diamonds, gold, and other gems, accumulated by English sovereigns over the centuries. While the collection dwindled during the upheavals of the 17th century, it remains a testament to England’s regal splendour.

The Adventures of London Bridge

From the tower’s vantage point, one can gaze upon another iconic London landmark—the London Bridge. Initially constructed in 1831, this bridge, known as Rennie’s Bridge, experienced structural issues, sinking by 1.20 inches (about 3 centimetres) annually. Sold to an American entrepreneur in 1968 and subsequently relocated to Arizona, it became a tourist attraction. Meanwhile, a new London Bridge was inaugurated in 1973, ensuring the city retained its vital connection across the Thames.

The Tower of London stands as a living testament to England’s rich and complex history. From its origins as a symbol of conquest to its role as a formidable fortress and infamous prison, it continues to captivate the imagination of visitors from around the world, offering a window into England’s past and its enduring legacy.

Tower of London Tours