Glory, Honor & The History of a Kingdom! 👑

This 90-foot tower is the original structure that gave the entire castle complex its name! Built over 950 years ago by William the Conqueror, it was meant to create a 15-foot stone barrier between himself and the conquered. 🏰✨ Talk about making a statement! Inside the White Tower, a one-way route winds through exhibits that bring medieval life back into focus—along with the tower's darker history of bloody torture and executions. 😨 The very first exhibit absolutely blew me away: seeing King Henry VIII's authentic, full-height suit of armor in person was a surreal start! 🛡️ Heading Upstairs... 🌀 You'll reach the rare and beautiful Chapel of St. John (c. 1080)—the oldest surviving part of the original tower and London's oldest church. 🙏🕯️ The atmosphere here is incredibly solemn and moving. A Word of Warning... ⚠️ The tower has many narrow, winding spiral staircases. Visiting in June, climbing these tight stairs was challenging and very hot (no air conditioning, lol 😅). Dress lightly and take your time! Don't Miss This on the Top Floor! ⛓️ Be sure not to overlook the actual executioner's axe and block displayed here—a chilling but essential piece of history. On Your Way Back... 🛍️ You'll pass through the gift shop located in the basement—yes, the very same basement that once served as the notorious prison where many prominent historical figures were held and tortured. It's easy to miss the significance of the space, so pause and remember the echoes of the past that linger here. #MedievalHistory #LondonHistory #NormanArchitecture #HistoricSite #TravelUK