Tower of London
The massive White Tower is a typical example of Norman military architecture, whose influence was felt throughout the kingdom. It was built on the Thames by William the Conqueror to protect London and assert his power. The Tower of London – an imposing fortress with many layers of history, which has become one of the symbols of royalty – was built around the White Tower.
http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/488
The Tower of London is a palace-fortress that is the best-preserved example of a royal Norman castle. It was founded by William The Conqueror in 1078. After taking the English crown in 1066, he established this huge fortress as his stronghold near the Thames river. It was both a defensive work and a royal residence.
The centrepiece of the complex is the 11th century White Tower - “white” for its massive whitewashed walls. It stands 36m high on the ground except for the four turrets. The building is made of stone.
Other parts include:
• Inner ward from the time of Richard Lionheart (12th century), with a moat and a curtain wall. In the 13th century 13 towers were added: Bell, Beauchamp, Devereux, Flint, Bowyer, Brick, Martin, Constable, Broad Arrow, Salt, Lanthorn, Wakefield, and the Bloody Tower. Also St Peter ad Vincula, a Norman chapel, was incorporated. The 19th century Waterloo Barracks houses the Crown Jewels of the United Kingdom.
• Outer ward built by Edward I (13th century), with its Traitor’s Gate (water gate entrance for prisoners), buildings for the Royal Mint, several towers and a new moat.
http://www.worldheritagesite.org/sites/toweroflondon.html
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