| Summary : Bell Tower at the Tower of London dates from the first enlargement of the Tower in the 1190s at which time it stood on the edge of the river. It stands on the corner of Mint Street and Water Lane and is the oldest tower after the White Tower. It was supported by a rubble platform with a solid base 5m high which was protected at ground level by a stepped plinth. It was probably built in two phases, the original polygonal shape being changed at the second storey to a circular plan. The curfew bell has been rung from this tower for at least 500 years, the present bell dates from 1651. The tower was used to lodge captives of high ranking including Sir Thomas More and Princess Elizabeth (future Elizabeth I). |