Looking down at such an historic and iconic building is bewildering. Thinking back throughout history about how this structure was designed, built and how it withstood all the historical events that have occurred.
Big Ben is the nickname for the great bell of the clock, located at the top of the 320-foot-high The Elizabeth Tower, on the north side of the Houses of Parliament in Westminster, London. The Palace of Westminster was originally constructed in 1017 and then rebuilt in 1870. It is the meeting place of the House of Commons and the House of Lords, the two houses of the Parliament of the United Kingdom.
Big Ben chimed for the first time on July 11, 1859 but it would not ring for long. That September, a crack caused it to fall silent for four years. It has since been quietened on other occasions. For seven weeks in 2007 its chimes were snuffed out so repairs could be made. It also fell silent during nine months of repairs in 1976.
For me travelling through the old world has such meaning and sentiment, my family hales from Scotland originally. Seeing and thinking about the structures and historical significance is awe inspiring.
The more I travel the more I learn and the more I learn the more I want to travel.
Thanks for reading.
Scott
For more adventures and images - http://www.scottstevensonphotography.ca/