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Tower of London

Type Object Region Western Europe Time 1078

Situated on the north bank of the Thames, the Tower of London has been a symbol of English royal power, fortress, and royal residence since the Norma…

Timeline

  1. 1078–1100North bank of the Thames, London · LondonWilliam I ordered Gundulf, architect of Rochester, to oversee construction of the White Tower, built of limestone and serving both palace and defensive functions. The castle commanded the eastern side of the City of London, symbolizing Norman conquest and control of England.
  2. 1251–1260Tower of London castle complex · LondonHenry III used the Tower as a permanent royal residence, adding the inner curtain wall, Wakefield Tower, and St Thomas's Tower, and decorating the royal apartments. During this period the castle combined residential, governmental, and imprisoning functions, becoming the core stronghold of 13th-century English royal power in the capital.
  3. 1485–1837Tower of London · LondonThe royal court gradually moved to Westminster and elsewhere, and the Tower became an arsenal, mint, and place of imprisonment for political prisoners. Tudor monarchs held important prisoners here, and the Crown Jewels also began to be stored in the castle, shifting its function from royal palace to national symbol and penal institution.

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