Tower of London

The origins of the Tower of London date back to the 11th century when William the Conqueror had the complex built as a fortress against the citizens of London. Over the centuries, the Tower served English and British monarchs as a residence, armory, prison, and even a zoo. Henry III significantly shaped the Tower's current appearance by expanding it in the 13th century and establishing the name Tower of London. His successor Edward I continued the expansion, creating a concentric castle with three defensive rings that stepped down outwards. From the 16th century onwards, the focus shifted from pure defense to use by various government agencies. In the 19th century, the Tower underwent a comprehensive redesign in the Neo-Gothic style, with numerous buildings demolished and rebuilt to restore a medieval appearance. Since the 1960s, restoration efforts have focused on reconstructing the original medieval state.

The fortress is located in London, Greater London, England, United Kingdom, directly at the southeastern end of the City of London on the River Thames. It stands at an elevation of approximately 16 meters above sea level.

Today, the Tower of London is accessible to visitors and houses exhibitions on its own history, parts of the Royal Armouries collection, and the British Crown Jewels. It also accommodates the headquarters and museum of the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers, as well as living quarters for the Yeoman Warders.

• Lambeth Palace (residence), approx. 3.4 km away
• Banqueting House (residence), approx. 3.5 km away
• Westminster Palace (residence), approx. 3.5 km away
• Westminster Abbey (sacred building), approx. 3.7 km away