History of Glory, Honor & the Crown 🏰⚔️👑

Standing tall at 90 feet, this mighty tower is the original structure that gave the entire castle complex its name. Built over 950 years ago by William the Conqueror, it was designed to create a stone barrier—both physical and symbolic—between the king and the conquered. And what a barrier it remains! 🛡️ Inside the White Tower: A Journey Through Time A one-way route winds through exhibits that bring the Middle Ages to life—from recreated medieval scenes to chilling displays detailing the tower’s dark history of torture and execution. The very first exhibit took my breath away: an authentic, full-sized suit of armor that once belonged to King Henry VIII! 🤯✨ ⛪️ A Hidden Sacred Space: The Chapel of St. John the Evangelist Up the stone steps lies something truly special—the stunning Chapel of St. John (c. 1080). This is not only the oldest surviving part of the original tower but also London’s earliest standing church. Its serene, round arches and quiet atmosphere feel like a whispered secret from the past. ⚠️ A Word to the Wise: Be prepared for narrow spiral staircases—lots of them! Visiting in June made the climb hot and challenging (no AC, of course 😅), but every step was worth the effort. 🪓 The Top Floor: A Chilling Finale Don’t miss the actual executioner’s axe and block displayed on the top floor. Standing so close to these grim artifacts sends shivers down your spine—a stark reminder of the lives ended here. 🎁 The Gift Shop with a Hidden Past On your way out, you’ll pass a gift shop located in the crypt—once the site of notorious prisons where many famous historical figures were imprisoned, tortured, and forever silenced. It’s easy to miss the significance of this space, so pause and remember the echoes of the past that linger here. #WhiteTowerLondon #MedievalHistory #RoyalFortress #LondonLandmarks #TowerOfLondon