Big Ben (London)
The clock tower known as Big Ben is one of the best known landmarks of London.
Situated in Westminster, it is part of the Houses of Parliament.
This historic complex was largely burnt down in 1834, and rebuilt to the designs of Charles Barry, assisted by A.W.Pugin, being completed in 1860.
Although the name Big Ben usually means the famous clock tower, it actually refers to the bell inside the clock. It is the chimes of Big Ben which, in Britain, herald any important passing of time.
Big Ben is named after Benjamin Hall, who was the Commissioner of Works at the time of the rebuilding.