The Houses of Parliament in London, also known as the Palace of Westminster, house the British Parliament and are flanked by the world-famous bell tower Big Ben.
The Houses of Parliament in the British capital London are the seat of the two parliaments of Great Britain, the House of Lords and the House of Commons. The magnificent building, also known as the Palace of Westminster, is located in the City of Westminster on Parliament Square. Together with Westminster Abbey and St. Margaret's Church, the Houses of Parliament have been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
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PICTURES: Houses of Parliament and Big Ben
Photo gallery: Houses of Parliament and Big Ben in London
A Historical Journey: The Houses of Parliament
From the 11th century until 1529, the majestic Palace of Westminster stood as the residence of English kings and queens. It was during the reign of King Edward the Confessor when the palace became the cherished abode of royalty, overlooking the serene waters of the Thames. After nearly two centuries, the Houses of Parliament were established; the House of Lords occupying Westminster Palace from its inception, while the House of Commons made its entry in 1547 when King Henry VIII relocated the royal seat to Whitehall Palace.
A visit to the Houses of Parliament unveils a rich history that spans centuries, where influential figures have shaped the course of the nation amidst these iconic walls. The grandeur of the Palace of Westminster, with its stunning Gothic architecture, narrates tales of power, tradition, and the eternal pursuit of democracy.
Unfortunately, not much is left ofthe original building since a devastating fire in 1834. The oldest remaining parts of the Houses of Parliament are Westminster Hall from 1097 and the Jewel Tower from 1365. After the devastating fire, the two English architects Charles Barry and Augustus Pugin were entrusted with the reconstruction out of 97 bids. Thus, in a good 30 years of construction time, the magnificent neo-Gothic building was created, which is still known today.
Thepalace is flanked by two striking towers, the square Victoria Tower and the graceful Elizabeth Tower, the latter known worldwide as Big Ben. In the middle of the Houses of Parliament, the 91m-high Central Tower rises into the London sky. After the destruction of the Second World War, the Houses of Parliament were rebuilt true to the original 19th century designs.
The Houses of Parliament contain a vast number of rooms, totaling around 1100, which serve a multitude of purposes. These rooms include council chambers, meeting spaces, libraries, sports facilities, bars, and dining areas. Additionally, the impressive Victoria Tower, standing at a height of 98m, proudly displays the Union Jack, the national flag of the United Kingdom, atop its pinnacle. This iconic tower houses the valuable archives belonging to both Houses of Parliament.
Fascinatingly, the Houses of Parliament not only serve as the primary meeting place for the two British parliaments, but they also function as a hub of activity, offering diverse amenities and services. Whether politicians gather in council chambers to make decisions, individuals engage in the pursuit of knowledge within the libraries, or sports enthusiasts utilize the sports halls, the Houses of Parliament are a bustling center of daily life.
Big Ben
The iconic clock tower known as Big Ben is a towering landmark that stands out amidst the Houses of Parliament. Rising 96 meters high on the north-west side of the Palace of Westminster, it has become a globally recognized symbol of London. Despite its fame, it is interesting to note that the tower is not actually called Big Ben. In fact, since 2012, it has been officially named Elizabeth Tower. In the past, it was known as St. Stephen's Tower.
What many people may not realize is that Big Ben is not the tower itself, but rather the name of the massive bell housed within it. Weighing an impressive 13 tonnes, this monumental bell chimes every hour, resonating with the timeless melody sourced from George Frideric Handel's "Messiah". It is worth mentioning that this incredible bell is also referred to as the "Great Bell". Furthermore, sessions of Parliament are signaled by a prominent light atop Big Ben.
Although it is unfortunate that only British citizens are permitted to embark on a climb up Big Ben, individuals from other countries can still marvel at the breathtaking panoramic view of London's magnificent cityscape. Imagining the spectacular sight of London's sea of houses is a remarkable experience in itself. On a practical note, visitors are spared from ascending the immense 393 steps of Big Ben.
Visit to the Houses of Parliament
The Houses of Parliament can be visited on several tours. The House of Lords, for example, is open to visitors, and its meeting rooms are much more splendid than those of the House of Commons, which only represented the people. In the Central Lobby, members of parliament can be addressed and won over to certain interests. This is where the term "lobbying" comes from.
British citizens can attend debates in the Houses of Parliament, attend committee, take a guided tour of Parliament and climb Big Ben. Foreign visitors have to be content with Saturday tours during the summer months, but can also attend debates and committees. Tours of the Houses of Parliament explain the main 19th century rooms and how the British government works.
Tip: The Jewel Tower can be visited for free with the London Pass!
Related links:
Houses of Parliament Tourist Information
Buy London Pass online
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