When you picture London, chances are an image of its famous clock tower, soaring majestically over the Houses of Parliament, springs to mind. For generations, this iconic structure has been affectionately, though often inaccurately, known worldwide as Big Ben. However, this common perception hides a fascinating distinction, one that visitors and locals alike often misunderstand.

The truth is, Big Ben is not a tower at all. It's actually the nickname for the massive bell housed within the tower. This colossal bell is responsible for striking the iconic chimes that have become synonymous with the city of London.

What's in a Name? The Tower's True Identity

For most of its existence, the structure that cradles Big Ben was simply referred to as the Clock Tower. It stood proudly at the northern end of the Palace of Westminster, a testament to Victorian Gothic architecture.

However, a significant change occurred in 2012. To honor Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee, the tower was officially renamed. It is now formally known as the Elizabeth Tower.

This renaming served to commemorate the Queen's 60 years on the throne, adding a regal touch to one of the United Kingdom's most recognizable symbols. So, while Big Ben has retained its popular moniker, the building itself pays homage to a monarch.

Meet Big Ben: The Bell That Started It All

The bell, Great Bell, quickly acquired its famous nickname, 'Big Ben'. There are two leading theories as to the origin of this name:

Some believe it was named after Sir Benjamin Hall, the First Commissioner of Works, whose name is inscribed on the bell.
Others suggest it was named after Benjamin Caunt, a popular heavyweight boxing champion of the time.

Regardless of its exact origin, the name stuck. The Great Bell weighs a staggering 13.7 tonnes (30,225 pounds), making it the largest of the five bells within the tower. Its distinctive tone is produced by a 200 kg hammer.

More Than Just One Bell

While Big Ben steals the spotlight, the Elizabeth Tower is home to a total of five bells. Alongside the Great Bell, there are four smaller quarter bells. These bells chime every 15 minutes, playing a sequence based on a melody from Handel's 'Messiah'.

The combination of these chimes and Big Ben's hourly strike creates the familiar soundscape that has echoed across London for over 160 years.

The Clockwork Marvel

Beyond the bells, the Elizabeth Tower houses one of the world's most accurate and famous four-faced chiming clocks. Designed by Edmund Beckett Denison and Edward Dent, the clock mechanism is renowned for its reliability.

Even during major events, such as World War II bombings, the clock continued to keep time. Its precision is meticulously maintained, with pennies sometimes added or removed from the pendulum to adjust its swing and ensure exact timing.

An Enduring Symbol

The Elizabeth Tower, with Big Ben inside, stands as more than just a time-telling device. It is a powerful symbol of British democracy, history, and resilience.

Its image is used globally to represent London and the United Kingdom, appearing in films, television shows, and tourist imagery. Understanding the correct terminology adds a layer of appreciation for this truly magnificent landmark.

Related Tags