Did You Know?

Did you know that London has a diverse and multicultural population? Over 300 languages are spoken in the city, making it one of the most linguistically diverse places in the world. People from various cultural backgrounds have made London their home, contributing to its vibrant and cosmopolitan atmosphere.

Did you know that London is home to many world-class museums and galleries? The city is renowned for its cultural institutions, such as the British Museum, the National Gallery, the Tate Modern, and the Victoria and Albert Museum. These institutions house vast collections of art, historical artifacts, and cultural treasures.

Did you know that London is home to the iconic Tower Bridge? Often mistaken as London Bridge, Tower Bridge is a famous symbol of the city. It was completed in 1894 and is an impressive feat of engineering. Visitors can walk across its high-level walkways and enjoy panoramic views of the River Thames and the city.

Did you know that London has an extensive underground railway system known as the "Tube"? The London Underground is the oldest underground railway network in the world and serves millions of passengers every day. It is an iconic symbol of the city's transportation system and a convenient way to navigate London's neighborhoods.

Did you know that London is the birthplace of the modern Olympic Games? The first modern Olympics were held in London in 1908. The city has since hosted the Games two more times, in 1948 and 2012. The 2012 London Olympics marked the first time that the Games were held in the city in over 60 years.

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The Iconic Big Ben: More Than Just A Clock Tower

Big Ben clock tower in London with its iconic architecture and famous timepiece

The famous clock, wrongly (curiously) called Big Ben, affixed to the Elizabeth Tower at Westminster Palace, next to the British Houses of Parliament is a major London icon. But Big Ben is actually a bell, one that strikes on the hours, not a clock. Big Ben lives behind the four clock faces on the Elizabeth Tower, and weighs in at 13,760 kg (13 tons).

The clock, 96 metres (just under 300 feet) above ground, can be seen from numerous locations in London. Its large (7 metres or 21 feet), prominent dial, lit up at night, has been watching over the city since May 31, 1859. In 2012, for Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee the tower was renamed in her honour.

The clock, being a working mechanism, is occasionally shut down for maintenance and repairs. Even then, visitors are not able to go inside, behind the clock faces, to visit Big Ben the bell. But it’s a comforting sound, the great gong of Big Ben, heard all around the town; it has rung consistently though its years, even through disasters like The Blitz.