THE TOWER OF LONDON

The Tower standing on the north bank of the Thames is one of the most ancient buildings of London. It was founded in the 11-th century by William the Conqueror for the purpose of protecting the city. For many centuries the Tower has been a fortress, a palace, a prison and royal treasury. It is now a museum of arms and armour. Those visiting the Tower can admire its wonderful collection of the Crown Jewels with a well-known diamond “Koh-i-noor”. Though kings were born, lived and were married in the Tower, it also happened, that they were murdered there. Many saddest and cruelest events took place within the walls of the Tower. It was here that falsely accused Thomas More, the greatest humanist, was executed. When being a princess Queen Elizabeth was sent to the Tower by Mary Tudor (“Bloody Mary”) and kept prisoner for some time.
The ravens whose forefathers used to find food in the Tower, still live here as part of its history. There is a legend that if the ravens disappear the Tower will fall. That is why the birds are carefully guarded. They are fed twice a day and are under a special care of the Raven Master.