Fireworks at BiG Ben

Big Ben is the nickname for the Great Bell of the clock located at the north end of the Palace of Westminster in London. The name is often extended to refer to both the clock and the clock tower, officially known as the Elizabeth Tower. This iconic structure stands as a symbol of the United Kingdom and its parliamentary democracy. citeturn0search0

**Historical Background**

The clock tower was completed in 1859 as part of Charles Barry's design for the new Palace of Westminster, following a fire that destroyed the old palace in 1834. The tower was originally named the Clock Tower until it was renamed the Elizabeth Tower in 2012 to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee. citeturn0search0

**Architectural Features**

- **Height**: The Elizabeth Tower stands at 96 meters (316 feet) tall. citeturn0search7

- **Clock Faces**: Each of the four clock dials is seven meters (23 feet) in diameter, containing 312 pieces of glass. The minute hands are 4.2 meters (14 feet) long and weigh about 100 kilograms (220 pounds) each. citeturn0search1

- **Inscriptions**: Below each clock face, there is a Latin inscription: "DOMINE SALVAM FAC REGINAM NOSTRAM VICTORIAM PRIMAM," which translates to "O Lord, keep safe our Queen Victoria the First." citeturn0search1

**The Great Bell (Big Ben)**

The Great Bell, known as Big Ben, weighs approximately 13.5 tons. Its chimes were first broadcast by the BBC on 31 December 1923, a tradition that continues today. citeturn0search1

**Cultural Significance**

As a British cultural icon, Big Ben is one of the most prominent symbols of the United Kingdom and parliamentary democracy. It frequently appears in films and other media as an establishing shot to represent London. citeturn0search0

**Visiting Big Ben**

Located in Westminster, Central London, the Elizabeth Tower is adjacent to the Houses of Parliament and near the River Thames. Westminster Tube station is directly across the road, serviced by the Jubilee, District, and Circle lines. Visitors can book guided tours to explore the tower, including climbing its 334 steps to the belfry. citeturn0search1

Please note that tours may be subject to availability and security restrictions.