# Big Ben

By [Untitled](https://paragraph.com/@0x83b34991009d3d36600efec021eb00b5cb2f8821) · 2024-01-20

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**The Elizabeth Tower**, commonly called Big Ben, is among London's most iconic landmarks. It was built in **1859**. Technically, Big Ben is the name given to the massive bell inside the tower. It weighs more than 13 tons.

The Elizabeth Tower stands _96 metres_ tall and has 11 floors. Dials of the clock are _seven metres_ in diameter. An hour hand is _2.8m_ in length; a minute hand is _4.3m_.

The latin words under the clockface read _Domine Salvam Fac Reginam Nostram Victoriam Primam_, which means "_O Lord, keep safe our Queen Victoria the First_".

You can tell when parliament is in session by looking at the clock face. A special light above the clock faces is illuminated when parliament is in session.

The 150th anniversary of the Elizabeth Tower was celebrated in 2009. Formerly known as the Clock Tower, _the structure was renamed the Elizabeth Tower in 2012_.

The tower is recognised all over the world. It is one of the most prominent symbols of the United Kingdom. It is often used in the establishing shot of films set in London.

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*Originally published on [Untitled](https://paragraph.com/@0x83b34991009d3d36600efec021eb00b5cb2f8821/big-ben)*