Welcome to Elizabeth Tower, colloquially known as Big Ben. A timeless emblem of British grandeur, its chimes, deep history, and architectural brilliance captivate millions of people around the world.
Elizabeth Tower, colloquially known as Big Ben.
History and architecture
Big Ben is the nickname for the Great Bell of the clock at the north end of the Palace of Westminster in London, though it is often extended to refer to both the clock and the clock tower as well. The tower itself is officially called the Elizabeth Tower, having been renamed in 2012 to honor Queen Elizabeth II during her Diamond Jubilee. The structure was earlier known simply as the Clock Tower.
The tower was completed in 1859 after 13 years of construction, designed by architects Charles Barry and Augustus Pugin as a part of the new Palace of Westminster following a devastating fire in 1834. Standing at 316 feet (96 meters) tall, it’s a striking example of Victorian Gothic Revival architecture. The clock and dials were designed by clock maker and engineer Frederick Dent.
The great bell
The Great Bell, commonly referred to as Big Ben, weighs an impressive 13.5 tons (about 13,760 kg) with a 7-foot 6-inch (2.3-meter) diameter. It was cast on 10 April 1858 at the Whitechapel Bell Foundry. Big Ben first rang out across Westminster on 31 May 1859. The bell's iconic chime, known around the world, was composed by George Handel and is based on the melody from Handel's music for the "Air" section of his oratorio "Messiah."
The clock mechanism
Big Ben's clock mechanism was designed by Edmund Beckett Denison (later Lord Grimthorpe) and installed by clockmaker Edward John Dent. It remains one of the most accurate mechanical clocks in the world. The clock began keeping time on 31 May 1859, and its distinctive chimes have signaled the time to Londoners and tourists alike ever since. The clock uses a double three-legged gravity escapement to regulate the movement of its pendulum. Each of the four clock dials on the tower is 23 feet (7 meters) in diameter, making them visible for miles.
Cultural significance
Big Ben stands not just as a timekeeper but as a symbol of endurance, reliability, and the rich legacy of British craftsmanship. The clock tower survived the bombing raids of World War II, standing tall while many buildings around it were destroyed, and continued to keep time. This resilience has made Big Ben a symbol of the British spirit.
The chimes of Big Ben are broadcasted by the BBC, marking the start of the six and ten o’clock news every day. The tower has also featured prominently in popular culture, appearing in films, television shows, and literature. It has become synonymous with the image of London, representing the city’s historical and political heart.
How to claim this Virtual Cache?
- Take a selfie (optional) and/or a photo of a thumbs-up, peace-symbol (V), or personal item. On the outside, clearly showing the clock in the background -OR- on the inside, clearly showing the bell known as Big Ben in the background. Additional photos are welcome!
Virtual Rewards 4.0 - 2024/2025
This Virtual Cache is part of a limited release of Virtuals created between January 17, 2024 and January 17, 2025. Only 4,000 cache owners were given the opportunity to hide a Virtual Cache.
Learn more about Virtual Rewards 4.0 on the Geocaching Blog.