Houses of Parliament London UK
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The Houses of Parliament, also known as the Palace of Westminster, is one of the most iconic landmarks in London and the centre of the United Kingdom's political life. In 1987, the Palace of Westminster, along with Westminster Abbey and St. Margaret's Church, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in recognition of its architectural and historical significance. The Houses of Parliament have served as the seat of the British government for centuries. It is where the two houses of the UK Parliament—the House of Commons and the House of Lords—meet to debate and pass legislation. The site of the present-day Houses of Parliament has a long history dating back to the medieval period. In the 11th century, a royal palace was built on the site by King Edward the Confessor. This palace was used by English monarchs for centuries. The Old Palace burnt down in 1834, a major fire destroyed the old Palace of Westminster, leaving it in ruins. Following the fire, a competition was held to design a new Parliament building. The design submitted by architects Sir Charles Barry and Augustus Pugin was selected. Construction began in 1840, and the building was completed in the 1850s. The new Palace of Westminster was built in a neo-Gothic style, which is now one of its defining characteristics.Big Ben: The Great Bell, which is often referred to as Big Ben (although this name originally referred to the Great Bell itself, not the clock or the tower), was cast in 1858 and installed in the Elizabeth Tower (formerly known simply as the Clock Tower). The chimes of Big Ben have since become one of the most famous sounds associated with the Houses of Parliament. The Palace of Westminster is not only a functional government building but also a major London landmark. Its distinctive Gothic architecture, central location along the River Thames, and the iconic clock tower with Big Ben make it instantly recognisable.
Houses of Parliament London UK Stock Footage
