Big Ben is one of London’s most iconic landmarks, but how much do you really know about it? Here are three surprising facts about Big Ben that might make you see this beloved tower in a whole new light.
Grandpa Ben
The Big Ben is still looking sharp, but it’s not that young anymore! With its building starting in 1843 as part of the restoration of the ruined Palace of Westminster and finally ending in 1859, it is now over 160 years old. We could never tell.
Nickname Basis
Here’s a cool tidbit: The Big Ben Tower was initially named The Clock Tower, then renamed in 2012 as Elizabeth Tower. So… why does everyone refer to it as Big Ben? This nickname is actually the name of the tower’s bell, weighing no less than 13 tons. The leading theory is that the bell was named after the Chief Commissioner of Works, Sir Benjamin Hall, whose nickname was Big Ben.
More Than One Bell
While Big Ben is the main bell of the tower, there are four other small bells playing at the same time, together creating its unique sound. Each bell plays a different note: G, F#, E, and B. So, the chime of Big Ben is actually a full chord! Who knew?
