London Day 2: Tower of London – Part 5

The Bloody Tower.

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Legend has it that two boy princes, sons and heirs of Edward IV were placed in this tower by their uncle, Richard of Gloucester, when their father died in 1483. Neither was seen again and Richard was crowned later that year. The skeletons of two children were found nearby in 1674.

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Remnants of the old wall.

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The view of the main entrance to The Tower of London from the outside perimeter.

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A view of The White Tower from the outside perimeter.

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One of the circular tower.

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A view of the line to The Crown Jewels from The White Tower.

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This exhibition is jam packed with tourists and no photography is allowed. The display include various crowns, orbs, and scepters used in various royal ceremonies. Spectators ride on a moving sidewalk to view the crowns; no stopping. But once can circle back to have another look.

Among the display are St. Edward’s Crown, the Sovereign’s Scepter which is encrusted with the world’s largest cut diamond (the 530-carat Star of Africa), the Queen Victoria Small Diamond Crown, the Crown of the Queen Mother and the Imperial State Crown which the Queen wears for official functions. The Imperial State Crown is the crown depicted on Britain’s coins and stamps.

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A foot guard wearing bearskin on duty.

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The ravens are one of the most famous sights at the Tower of London. Legend has it that Charles II was told that if the ravens left the Tower, the kingdom and the fortress would fall. So, the birds have part of their wings clipped on one side, making flight impossible. The Ravenmaster, one of the Yeoman Warders, looks after the birds.

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