Imagine a concoction of mystery, horror, revolt, and love stories, blend it with a dazzling collection of historical gems and a bit of age-old prophecy about an impending disaster. What comes out of this mixture?
That's the allure of one of the most frequented tourist spots in the heart of United Kingdom, the Tower of London.
An architectural marvel, the striking Tower of London, is a beautifully crafted sanctuary of white stones gracefully resting alongside the historic River Thames. This iconic London structure has withstood the test of time for over 900 years, and still stands tall, proud, and mysterious.
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Every year, the Tower welcomes upwards of three million visitors eager to unravel the enigma hidden within its towering walls. Their mission? To explore the mysteries, folklore, and legends nestled within this popular destination.
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For those fortunate, they may cross paths with the one individual who holds an abundance of knowledge about these secrets – the infamous Ravenmaster.
Skyline staple
Unveiling the Dark Past: Tower of London, a historic and iconic landmark that has towered majestically over the city of London for over nine centuries. This formidable fortress was commissioned by William the Conqueror, the renowned first Norman King of England, around 1078. Throughout its rich and blood-soaked history, the Tower of London has transformed into a captivating tourist destination, attracting an impressive influx of over three million curious visitors annually.
Step foot inside the Tower's ancient stone walls, and you'll find yourself immersed in a world brimming with untold mysteries. Unravel the enigmatic tales that lie within its chambers, as you delve into the secrets of royals, rebels, and renegades. Explore the very spots where prisoners were held captive, interrogated, and even executed, including the infamous Bloody Tower and Traitor's Gate.
Unveiling the Tower's Enigmatic Past: Over centuries, the Tower of London has enshrined a captivating tapestry of secrets, historical events, and enduring legends. Within its imposing walls, a somber backdrop of tragic deaths and mysterious vanishings has unfolded. Immerse yourself in the Tower's compelling narrative of intrigue and explore the mystique surrounding its storied walls.
Embarking on a visit in 2018, you will be awe-struck by the Tower's sheer magnitude. Spanning an expansive 12-acre expanse, this architectural marvel stands as a self-contained microcosm within the bustling city.
Iconic feature of the city: William desired the fortress to serve as a constant symbol of his triumph, ensuring the inhabitants of London never forgot his victory. Even today, the Tower continues to be an integral part of the city's skyline.
Displaying the past: The White Tower currently presents a captivating collection of historical weaponry and protective gear within the Line of Kings exhibition. This particular display has been an integral part of the Tower's offerings for over three centuries.
Trends that have shifted: The display showcases the evolution of royal armor across different time periods and will captivate enthusiasts of history. It vividly illustrates how the preferences of tourists have transformed over time.
Discover the secrets of Britain's infamous Tower of London, a historic landmark that holds not only a chilling past but also showcases the country's Crown Jewels. Protected by armed guards within the Tower's walls, the Crown Jewels provide a breathtaking spectacle. The stunning Imperial State Crown, featured in the image, was crafted in 1937 and adorned with precious jewels believed to have origins dating back to the 1300s.
This iconic treasure, steeped in centuries of history, serves as a testament to the grandeur and opulence of Britain's monarchy. Embark on a journey through time as you delve into the Tower's bloody past, marvel at the craftsmanship of the Crown Jewels, and witness the legacy of royal heritage.
Authentic treasures: The illustrious jewels on display at the Tower of London are the genuine articles, their historical significance unfading. Even replicated versions like this impeccable set, crafted in commemoration of the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953, hold extraordinary value, estimated to be £5,000- £7,000.
Did you know? The Crown Jewels of the United Kingdom, housing opulent gems like the Koh-i-Noor diamond and St. Edward's Crown, are safeguarded within the impenetrable walls of the Tower of London. Their symbolic importance to the British monarchy is unparalleled.
Commencement ritual: Each morning, the Tower is ceremoniously inaugurated by the Yeoman Warders, who act as both protectors of the Tower and guides for visitors, imparting knowledge through informative tours.
Exciting Career Opportunity: In order to qualify as a Yeoman Warder, candidates must have a minimum of 22 years of experience in the armed forces as a Warrant Officer or Senior Non-Commissioned Officer. Additionally, they must possess Long Service and Good Conduct medals.
Historical Practices and Cultural Norms: The enduring and rich heritage of the Tower of London is exemplified by the presence of Yeoman Warders, who have resided within the fortress alongside their families for centuries. This longstanding tradition traces its roots all the way back to the 1400s, with some of the living spaces themselves dating back even further to the 13th century.
Overview: The Tower of London is home to various unique characters, and one of them is the Ravenmaster. Chris Skaife, a Yeoman Warder, is responsible for taking care of the Tower's feathered inhabitants.
A fascinating responsibility: According to a CNN interview, Chris Skaife holds the extraordinary position of being the sole Ravenmaster worldwide, with the crucial duty of ensuring the well-being and security of the Tower of London's majestic ravens.
Chris Skaife emphasizes the uniqueness of his role, highlighting that he is not only officially recognized as the Ravenmaster, but also the exclusive individual entrusted with this important task. His commitment to safeguarding these remarkable birds contributes to the ancient and captivating history of the Tower of London.
Unveiling the Historical Significance of the Tower's Ravens: Ravens occupy a pivotal role in the Tower of London's illustrious past and enduring heritage. According to Skaife, the Tower fosters a wealth of myths and legends, one of which highlights the profound connection between ravens and the preservation of the Kingdom - should these magnificent birds abandon the Tower's premises, its foundation would crumble, foreboding catastrophic consequences.
With their mysterious allure, the ravens at the Tower of London symbolize more than just birds; they embody centuries of captivating history and provide an extraordinary insight into the nation's regal past. Grasping the significance of these legendary creatures, it becomes apparent that their presence and care are indispensably entwined with the Tower's preservation, safeguarding the mystical aura that continues to captivate visitors and historians alike.
Royal decree: No one is sure where the ominous raven legend came from -- but when Charles II came to the throne in 1630, he decreed that there must always be six ravens at the Tower -- to ensure Britain's safety.
Forging connections with feathered friends: Skaife has formed a unique bond with one of his avian companions, the raven known as Merlina, who is captured in a photo here. As Skaife explains, "The relationship I have with the ravens is greatly influenced by the distinct personality of each individual raven residing at the Tower of London."
These incredible ravens are more than just mystical creatures that guard the historic fortress. They have become trusted confidants of the Yeoman Warder, providing companionship and adding a touch of enchantment to the Tower's already rich atmosphere.
Animal sanctuary: In modern times, the city of London has gained prominence for its renowned zoo located in Regents Park. However, it is intriguing to discover that during the reign of King John from 1199 to 1216, the Tower of London served as the home to the Royal Menagerie. This impressive collection housed a wide array of fascinating and exotic creatures.
Historical Fact: Back in 1255, the Royal Menagerie in the UK received its first polar bear and elephant as a gift from Louis IX of France. This marked a significant moment in the history of the Menagerie, which remained in operation until its official closure in 1830.
Dark past: Throughout its history, the Tower of London has witnessed a harrowing series of events. A total of 22 executions have taken place within its walls, the most recent being that of Josef Jakobs, a German spy who ventured into England, only to meet his downfall.
The mysterious disappearance of the Tower's Princes: One of the most intriguing puzzles surrounding the Tower of London is the enigma of the lost Princes in the Tower. In the year 1483, these two young boys vanished from the Tower while being held in the care of Richard, Duke of Gloucester.
Famous penitentiary: During the 1950s, the notorious criminal brothers known as the Kray twins found themselves incarcerated in the Tower for one evening as a consequence of their failure to report for national service. Remarkably, they were the last individuals ever held captive within the walls of the Tower.
Buried treasure: Rumor has it that there's mysterious buried treasure somewhere in the Tower -- the Lieutenant of the Tower during the Cromwell period (1649-1660) hid £20,000 of gold coins in the stone walls. The riches have yet to be discovered.
Approaching the Tower from the river bank, the fortress cuts an impressive figure. It’s surrounded by a waterless moat and a sturdy stone wall. The view is pretty much unchanged from the panorama once experienced by England’s medieval Queens and Kings.
The Tower of London was the brainchild of William the Conqueror, the first Norman King of England who claimed the throne following his victory in the Battle of Hastings in 1066.
In the years since it’s grown, helping shape modern Britain. Visiting in 2018, you’ll struck by its size: the Tower covers 12 acres of the city – it’s almost a village in itself.
Inside, the medieval buildings contrast with London skyscrapers glimpsed beyond the stone walls.
The building was designed to be etched into the hearts and minds of Londoners.
It’s a maze of cobbled-streets and impressive stone structures, from the White Tower that dates from the fortress’s inception to the Waterloo Block, home of the Crown Jewels.
A peek at the Queen’s collection is a must. Visitors can marvel at the twinkling gemstones, crowns and orbs, which are under armed guard inside a vault.
The jewels have been a staple of the British monarchy since William the Conqueror – but much of the medieval bling was melted down when monarchy was abolished in 1649-1660.
When royalty was restored in the 1660s, new jewels were constructed. The majority of the regalia worn by Queen Elizabeth II dates from this period.
The only exceptions? Three 17th century swords and one 11th century coronation spoon. The spoon was sold off during the interregnum, but the buyer personally returned it to Charles II in order to get in the newly anointed King’s good books.
All these opulent trinkets are visible to Tower guests. Walking through the chambers, visitors are shepherded through the display on moving walkways, allowing them to admire the gems without battling other guests for the best view.
For many visitors, the jewels are the Tower’s chief attraction – but there are plenty of other delights.
Tower of terror
The Tower of London holds a dark and gruesome past, having been a witness to countless horrifying deaths and mysterious disappearances. It is a historical site that is best enjoyed as a full day outing, offering visitors a chance to explore its numerous attractions and delve deep into the secrets of its bloody history.
To make the most of your visit, it is advisable to arrive early and avoid the long queues that tend to form later in the day. Weekdays are generally quieter than weekends and public holidays, providing a more peaceful and immersive experience. Despite London's infamous winter weather, the Tower remains slightly quieter during the off-season, making it an ideal time to explore the indoor highlights and learn more about its captivating past.
Within the Tower's walls lies a wealth of regal highlights, showcasing the grandeur and significance of royal London. In addition to its violent history, the Tower played a pivotal role in the nation's financial system until 1810, being the place where the country's money was produced. Furthermore, it served as the birthplace of Britain's groundbreaking Ordnance Survey map system, which revolutionized cartography during the 18th century.
Another intriguing aspect of the Tower's history was its menagerie, which housed exotic animals for over six centuries. From fearsome alligators to Britain's first polar bear and even an elephant gifted by Louis IX of France in 1255, these peculiar creatures formed a unique and awe-inspiring addition to the Tower's allure.
Whether you visit during summer or winter, there will always be fascinating facts waiting to be discovered within the walls of the Tower of London. It is a place where history comes alive, leaving an indelible mark on all those who venture through its gates.
Tower Bridge can be glimpsed from inside the Tower of London's walls.
Many tourists visit the Tower to learn more about is grisly reputation as a prison.
Infamous Tudor king Henry VIII remodeled parts of the White Tower in honor of the coronation of his new bride, Anne Boleyn in 1533. But only three years later, Anne was executed at the Tower – accused of adultery and treason.
The White Tower is a highlight thanks to its historic exterior and what lies inside: the “Line of Kings” is one of the Tower’s earliest museum exhibits, charting royal armor through the ages and providing an intriguing insight into 17th century tourism habits.
One of the Tower’s greatest mysteries is the lost princes. These young boys disappeared in the Tower while under the custody of Richard, Duke of Gloucester – it’s widely believed Richard murdered them in his gory path to the crown, but their bodies have never been found.
William Shakespeare immortalized Richard’s rise to power in his play “Richard III.”
Guests can discover grisly history in the Lower Wakefield Tower, where displays showcase the painful methods of torture used at the Tower and replicas of the terrifying instruments used to administer pain.
In total, there were 22 executions inside the Tower of London, fewer than might be expected given its reputation. The last person to be executed was a German spy, Josef Jakobs, who parachuted into England during World War II and was killed in 1941.
In the 1950s, infamous gangsters the Kray twins were held in the Tower for one night – after failing to turn up for their national service. They were the last prisoners to be incarcerated in the Tower.
Meet the Ravenmaster
The Tower of London’s resident ravens hold a position of utmost importance within the historic landmark. These majestic birds are not only the true VIPs of the Tower but also a symbol of tradition and folklore.
Modern-day inhabitants of the Tower of London no longer consist of prisoners but are esteemed individuals who consider it a privilege to reside in this iconic structure. Approximately 150 people, including 37 Yeoman Warders fondly referred to as “Beefeaters,” call the Tower their home.
Becoming a Yeoman Warder entails a remarkable career in the UK’s armed forces, specifically as a warrant officer or senior non-commissioned officer, with a minimum service period of 22 years. In addition, candidates must possess the UK military Long Service and Good Conduct medal as a testament to their dedication and exemplary conduct.
Among the esteemed Yeoman Warders is Chris Skaife, renowned for his role in safeguarding the Tower’s true VIPs: the ravens themselves.
Paul Skaife, the Ravenmaster at the Tower of London, shares a unique connection with his beloved raven, Merlin, who is affectionately known as Melina.
Skaife's role as Ravenmaster is no ordinary job – it is an essential part of the Tower's history and folklore, as various myths and legends have tied the presence of the ravens to the very survival of the Tower itself.
"The Tower is steeped in myths and legends, and one powerful tale suggests that if the ravens were to abandon the Tower of London, it would crumble, causing grave harm to the entire Kingdom," reveals Skaife.
The origin of this legend remains a topic of debate among historians, though it is known that in 1630, Charles II proclaimed that there must always be six ravens present at the Tower to safeguard Britain's well-being. The official position of Ravenmaster was formalized in the 1960s, recognizing the importance of the ravens in preserving the Tower's history.
For centuries, the bond between the Ravenmaster and the ravens has remained unbroken, ensuring the continuity of this compelling and mystical aspect of the Tower of London.
The Tower’s VIPs
Ravenmaster Chris Skaife looks after the ravens at the Tower of London.
There are currently seven resident ravens at the Tower.
These impressive birds are well-looked after by Skaife and his team. They get fresh meat from nearby Smithfield market and top notch veterinary care. To discourage them from flying away, their flight feathers are regularly trimmed by the Ravenmaster.
“I feed them, look after them, let them out during the day and make sure that they’re nice and healthy for the members of the public to come and see them throughout the day and photograph them,” says Skaife. “And then at night time of course I have to put them back into bed, so I shepherd them back into bed at night time, back into their enclosure.”
In the six years Skaife has been Ravenmaster, he’s developed relationships with the birds.
“I do have a large bonding with one of our other ravens called Merlin, or affectionately known as Merlina, and we’re really good friends,” he says.
Social media superstar
Living and working inside the historic Tower of London, known as the Yeoman Warders or Beefeaters, is an incredible privilege. These dedicated individuals are responsible for safeguarding the secrets and stories of the tower's bloody past.
One such custodian is Chris Skaife, the Ravenmaster, whose role involves taking care of the iconic ravens that are believed to protect the tower. Skaife's unique position has connected him with fellow raven enthusiasts worldwide, allowing for engaging conversations about their shared passion.
Serving as the Ravenmaster in the Tower of London is not just a job for Skaife; it is an honor that holds great personal significance. Being able to play a vital role in preserving the historical legacy and remarkable tales of the tower is a remarkable achievement for him.