The Tower of London has always fascinated me—a castle, a prison, and a fortress all in one. It’s been the site of everything from royal beheadings to mysterious disappearances, and even today, it holds plenty of secrets. Despite all the history books, there are still plenty of fascinating details about the Tower that most people don’t know. Whether it’s the wild animals that used to live there, or the hidden messages carved into its walls, the Tower has layers of history worth exploring. Here are some intriguing facts about this iconic landmark that might surprise you!
1. It’s Been Standing for Nearly 1,000 Years
Construction of the Tower of London began in 1078, commissioned by William the Conqueror. Originally built as a fortress to protect London, the Tower has stood through wars, fires, and countless historical events. Nearly a millennium old, it’s one of the oldest standing buildings in England.
2. The Tower Was Once a Royal Zoo
For hundreds of years, the Tower of London housed exotic animals sent as gifts to British royalty, creating a mini-zoo right in the heart of the city. Lions, tigers, bears, and even an elephant called the Tower home! Eventually, these animals were moved to the London Zoo in the 19th century for better care.
3. Six Ravens Live at the Tower for Good Luck
A group of six ravens is always kept at the Tower due to a centuries-old superstition that says, “If the ravens leave, the Tower and the kingdom will fall.” Today, these birds are cared for by a designated “Ravenmaster,” and each raven even has its own name and personality.
4. It Was England’s First Prison for High-Profile Prisoners
The Tower has held some of England’s most famous (and infamous) prisoners, including queens, kings, and even a few foreign dignitaries. Anne Boleyn, Guy Fawkes, and Elizabeth I all spent time imprisoned here, sometimes awaiting execution, making it one of the most storied prisons in history.
5. The Crown Jewels Are Guarded in the Tower
The Tower of London is home to the British Crown Jewels, a priceless collection that includes crowns, scepters, and some of the largest diamonds in the world. Today, they’re stored in a vault within the Tower, protected by high-security measures and heavily guarded at all times.
6. The Tower Has a “Bloody Tower” with a Dark Legend
One of the most infamous parts of the Tower is known as the “Bloody Tower,” named after the mysterious disappearance of two young princes, Edward V and his brother Richard, in the 15th century. The mystery of their fate has never been solved, adding an eerie air to this part of the castle.
7. Over 100 Executions Took Place Here
While only a few executions happened within the Tower walls, over a hundred took place on Tower Hill, just outside. Many famous figures were executed here, including Anne Boleyn and Lady Jane Grey. A memorial now stands on the execution site to honor these historical figures.
8. Graffiti Covers Its Ancient Walls
Hidden away in the Tower’s cells are carvings and graffiti left by prisoners, some dating back hundreds of years. These carvings include messages, symbols, and even family crests, showing that even in confinement, prisoners found ways to leave a mark on history.
9. It’s Believed to Be Haunted
With so many gruesome events taking place within its walls, it’s no wonder people believe the Tower is haunted. Many visitors have reported seeing ghostly apparitions, including the ghost of Anne Boleyn carrying her head under her arm and a shadowy figure known as “the Grey Lady.”
10. The Tower Once Stored Gunpowder for the British Army
The Tower of London wasn’t just a prison—it was also an armory. For centuries, it held weapons, ammunition, and gunpowder for the British Army, making it one of the most fortified and important military sites in England.
11. A Beefeater’s Ceremony Still Marks the End of Each Day
The “Ceremony of the Keys” is a 700-year-old tradition where a Beefeater locks the Tower’s main gates every night. This tradition has continued uninterrupted, even during the Blitz in WWII. It’s a highly respected ritual, and visitors can still watch it with advance booking.
12. Beefeaters Live at the Tower Year-Round
The Yeoman Warders, commonly known as Beefeaters, actually live within the Tower with their families. They’re responsible for guarding the Tower, conducting tours, and keeping traditions alive. Living there means they’re part of the Tower’s history every single day.
Ellen has been obsessed with logic puzzles, jigsaws, and cryptograms since she was a kid. After learning she was taught how to play chess wrong by a family friend (so they could win), she joined her school chess club and the rest is history.
