The Tower of London

The Tower of London is a historic fortress and former royal palace situated on the north bank of the River Thames in central London. Founded by William the Conqueror in 1066 as a symbol of Norman power, the fortress has served many purposes over the centuries: a royal residence, treasury, armory, prison, and even a zoo. Its central structure, the White Tower, is one of the oldest buildings in London, constructed in the late 11th century. Surrounded by concentric defensive walls and a deep moat, the Tower has been the site of many significant events in English history—from the imprisonment and execution of Anne Boleyn to the mysterious disappearance of the Princes in the Tower. It houses the Crown Jewels of the United Kingdom, guarded by the iconic Yeoman Warders, also known as Beefeaters. Today, the Tower is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major public museum, drawing millions of visitors each year who come to explore its deep royal, military, and political legacy.