The Tower of London has a cozy little place in popular culture. From its use in the British movie Johnny English, to William Harrison Ainsworth’s historical romance, The Tower of London, it’s clear that the tower itself has been used in more than one artistic endeavor. Whether it be because of its magnificent architecture, or its cultural importance, the Tower of London continues to be a significant symbol in today’s world. 

The History

Like any building associated with royalty, the Tower of London has a particularly infamous history. It was first founded by William the Conqueror, where it was used as a fortress to represent his power. Afterwards, the Tower expanded and changed in order to adapt to the progressing nation, as well as to better defend it in times of need. Interestingly enough, the Tower has also been used to store the nation’s finances, whether it be jewels, valuables, and other prized possessions. Even so, the Tower also has a rather infamous reputation attached to it, that of a place of death and destruction. King Henry VI was killed in the Tower during the time of the Wars of the Roses, as were King Edward IV’s children. Anne Bolyn, the infamous mistress of Henry VIII, was also executed as a witch there. 

The Stories

Because of its long, complex history, the Tower has been associated with the UK’s power, as well as its wealth. However, the Tower also carries a few legends with it. One legend revolves around the Tower’s ravens, and that, should the ravens leave, the kingdom would fall. Because of this, the ravens are cared for by someone to this day, who is also known as the Ravenmaster. Another legend involves the ghosts of the Tower, and how it’s been haunted by several ghosts who are looking for their killer, with particularly famous ones being Edward VI’s children, or the “Princes of the Tower”, Anne Boleyn, and Margaret Pole. There is, after all, a reason why it's nicknamed the "Bloody Tower." 

The Crown Jewels

Because the Tower housed the nation’s finances, it’s no surprise that the Crown Jewels of the United Kingdom are also housed there. The Crown Jewels are considered treasures that date back centuries, with the most iconic of the jewels being the Imperial Crown. The Crown contains many jewels, which includes over 2000 diamonds, 277 pearls, and 5 rubies, and is estimated to be worth at approximately half a billion USD dollars. What’s more, similar to the tower itself, the Crown Jewels are symbols of England’s sovereignty, so it’s a rather appropriate setting. 

The Tower of London has a special history that is only matched by its fearsome beauty. From its varied uses, to the power its very image carries, to even the treasures it houses, the Tower of London is an edifice that has inspired many authors and artists. Its enduring symbolism is a rather addictive muse for many, and will continue to be for centuries.