London’s Tower Bridge is an iconic landmark that is often referred to as a symbol of the city itself. The bridge is known for its stunning design and impressive engineering feats. But there is so much more to this landmark than meets the eye. Here are 5 interesting facts about Tower Bridge that you probably didn’t know.
1. It wasn’t always called Tower Bridge
The bridge was originally known as the “East End Bridge”, but it was renamed Tower Bridge in 1894 after the nearby Tower of London. The new name was chosen to enhance the bridge’s prestige and to attract more visitors to the area.
2. It’s a bascule bridge
Tower Bridge is a unique type of bridge called a bascule bridge. This means that it has a movable section that can be raised and lowered to allow ships to pass through. The bascules are counterbalanced by massive weights which drop down the towers as the bascules are raised.
3. It was almost painted green and yellow
When Tower Bridge was first built, it was painted a dull brown color that didn’t stand out against the gray London sky. In 1977, it was decided that the bridge needed a facelift, and a new color scheme was proposed. The plan was to paint the bridge green and yellow, but after public outcry, the original blue and white colors were restored.
4. It has a secret underground chamber
Beneath the bridge’s north tower, there is a secret underground chamber that was used as a control room for the bridge’s hydraulic system. The room is now used as a museum and contains some of the bridge’s original machinery.
5. It’s a popular spot for daredevils
Tower Bridge is known for attracting daredevils who like to climb the bridge’s towers and walk across the top of the bascules. In 2014, a group of Russian daredevils climbed the bridge and took a selfie at the top, causing outrage and prompting calls for increased security measures.
In conclusion, Tower Bridge is an iconic landmark that has played an important role in the history of London. From its unique design to its fascinating history, there is so much to learn about this impressive structure. Whether you’re a London local or a first-time visitor, Tower Bridge is definitely worth a visit.
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