The Houses of Parliament, a symbol of British democracy, hold a treasure trove of intriguing facts waiting to be uncovered. With centuries of history encapsulated within its walls, the Parliament buildings have witnessed countless pivotal moments in the UK’s political journey. From its iconic Big Ben to the hidden quirks and traditions, each fact reveals a layer of the institution’s fascinating past and present.
Nestled along the River Thames, the architectural grandeur of the Houses of Parliament attracts millions of visitors each year. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the complex intricacies of how the Parliament operates, its historical milestones, and the lesser-known anecdotes are equally captivating.
Exploring these facts not only sheds light on the inner workings of British governance but also offers a glimpse into the cultural and historical fabric that shapes the nation. The following article dives into ten of the most remarkable aspects of the Houses of Parliament that every history buff and curious mind will find enthralling.
Architectural Grandeur of the Palace of Westminster
The Palace of Westminster stands as a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture, with intricate spires and towers that symbolise British heritage. Big Ben, the world-famous clock tower, also offers a distinctive feature of unparalleled significance.
Gothic Revival Masterpiece
The Palace of Westminster showcases the Gothic Revival style, led by architect Charles Barry and designer Augustus Pugin. The design includes pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and intricate tracery.
Distinctive elements like ornamented façades and elaborate stonework embody this architectural period. The building’s grand halls, such as the House of Lords, reflect the rich history and traditions of the United Kingdom.
Symbolic Spires and Towers
The towers of the Palace play a symbolic role in British culture. The Victoria Tower, the tallest, stands at 98 metres and holds the Sovereign’s entrance.
The Central Tower, at 91 metres, is an essential part of the building’s ventilation system. The Elizabeth Tower, home to Big Ben, serves not only as an architectural marvel but also as a cultural icon.
The Iconic Big Ben
Big Ben refers to the Great Bell within the Elizabeth Tower, which reaches a height of 96 metres. The clock tower’s design features an intricate Gothic spire and four clock faces, each spanning seven metres in diameter.
The chimes of Big Ben have announced the time to Londoners and symbolise the resilience and spirit of Britain.
Historical Significance and Events
The Houses of Parliament have been a central hub for British politics for centuries. They have witnessed numerous historical events, from their medieval origins to political milestones and traditional ceremonies that continue to this day.
Origins and Rebuilding
The original Palace of Westminster was built in the early 11th century. It became the primary royal residence of the British monarchs until a fire in 1512 destroyed much of the structure. King Henry VIII then moved his court to the Palace of Whitehall. Despite the move, Westminster continued to serve as the location for the English Parliament.
A significant fire in 1834 led to the complete rebuilding of the now iconic Houses of Parliament. Architect Charles Barry won the commission, and construction began in 1840. The new Gothic Revival buildings were completed in 1870, with the iconic Big Ben clock tower becoming one of the most recognisable symbols of the United Kingdom.
Key Political Milestones
The Houses of Parliament have been the backdrop for many key political milestones. The signing of the Magna Carta in 1215 laid the groundwork for the development of a parliamentary system. The Glorious Revolution of 1688 and the subsequent Bill of Rights in 1689 were pivotal in limiting the powers of the monarchy and establishing parliamentary sovereignty.
In the 20th century, events such as the passing of the Parliament Acts of 1911 and 1949 reshaped the relationship between the House of Commons and the House of Lords. These acts significantly reduced the legislative power of the Lords, solidifying the Commons’ supremacy in legislative matters.
Traditions and Ceremonies
The Houses of Parliament are steeped in traditions and ceremonies. The State Opening of Parliament is a significant annual event marked by a speech from the throne, where the monarch outlines the government’s agenda for the coming year. The event is notable for its pageantry, including the procession of Black Rod, who historically has the doors to the Commons Chamber slammed in his face as a symbol of the chamber’s independence.
Another tradition is the “division bell,” which rings throughout parliamentary buildings to signal MPs to vote. The ancient practice of “dragging” the newly elected Speaker of the House of Commons to the chair also highlights the reluctance traditionally expressed by candidates for this role, given its historic dangers.
