This quiz on Big Ben is designed for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone curious about London’s iconic landmark. Test your knowledge about the famous clock tower, its history, construction, and interesting facts in this engaging quiz.
From its impressive architecture to its significance as a symbol of London, Big Ben has captivated people around the world. Whether you’re a trivia whiz or just interested in learning more about this historic monument, this quiz offers a fun opportunity to explore the legacy of Big Ben.
Challenge yourself with questions about Big Ben’s design, the reason behind its name, and how it has stood the test of time as a cultural icon. Discover fascinating details about one of the most recognizable landmarks in the United Kingdom with this quiz on Big Ben.
1. What year was Big Ben completed?
- 1859
- 1861
- 1858
- 1860
2. Where is Big Ben located in London?
- Tower Hill
- Westminster
- Buckingham
- London Eye
3. Who designed the clock tower that houses Big Ben?
- Harry Barry
- Larry Barry
- Benjamin Barry
- Charles Barry
4. How tall is the clock tower of Big Ben?
- 231 feet
- 492 feet
- 567 feet
- 314 feet
5. What is the official name of Big Ben?
- Elizabeth Tower
- Victoria Tower
- Edward Tower
- George Tower
6. Which river does Big Ben overlook?
- Thames
- Rhine
- Seine
- Danube
7. What material was used to build the clock tower of Big Ben?
- Marble
- Limestone
- Sandstone
- Granite
8. How many faces does the clock of Big Ben have?
- Six
- Three
- Four
- Five
9. What event caused the original Big Ben to be destroyed before the current one was built?
- Tornado
- Earthquake
- Flood
- Fire
10. How many bells are housed in the clock tower of Big Ben?
- 4 bells
- 3 bells
- 6 bells
- 5 bells
11. How often does the Great Bell of Big Ben chime?
- Every hour
- Every day
- Every week
- Every minute
12. What is the main function of the clock tower of Big Ben?
- Weather observation
- Sound amplification
- Air traffic control
- Timekeeping
13. Which monarch was reigning during the construction of Big Ben?
- Queen Victoria
- King George IV
- King Henry VIII
- Queen Elizabeth I
14. How many steps are there to reach the top of the clock tower of Big Ben?
- 334
- 290
- 312
- 268
15. On what occasion is Big Ben`s Great Bell set to chime its full tune?
- Thanksgiving Day
- Valentine`s Day
- New Year`s Eve
- Christmas Eve
16. What was the reason behind the original Great Bell of Big Ben being cracked?
- Extreme weather
- Design flaw
- Overuse
- Material fatigue
17. How many lights illuminate the clock faces of Big Ben at night?
- Eight
- Two
- Four
- Six
18. What was the estimated cost of constructing Big Ben in the 19th century?
- £500,000
- £1,000,000
- £750,000
- £2,500,000
19. What was the original purpose of the clock tower of Big Ben?
- To signal high tide times
- To track the phases of the moon
- To measure daylight hours
- To predict eclipses
20. Why was the Great Bell of Big Ben temporarily silenced for maintenance in recent years?
- Cracks found in the bell`s structure
- Clockwork malfunction
- Too loud for nearby residents
- Tower renovations
Big Ben quiz successfully completed
Congratulations on completing the quiz on Big Ben! By engaging in this quiz, you have delved into the fascinating history and unique architecture of one of the most iconic landmarks in London. Through exploring the questions, you have brushed up on essential facts about this famous clock tower and its significance in British culture.
Throughout this quiz, you may have learned about the origin of the name “Big Ben,” the structure’s connection to Queen Elizabeth II, and the importance of its distinctive chimes. This experience has likely deepened your understanding and appreciation of Big Ben’s role in marking time and standing as a symbol of endurance and resilience for the people of London.
If you’re hungry for more knowledge on Big Ben or eager to explore related topics further, don’t hesitate to navigate to our next section on this page. There, you will discover additional enriching information that will expand your insights about Big Ben and other historical landmarks. Keep up the curiosity and enthusiasm for learning!
Curious for more?
If you’re captivated by the enchanting allure of London’s skyline, one iconic structure stands out amidst the urban sprawl – Big Ben. Despite common misconception, Big Ben actually refers to the large bell housed within the famous clock tower at the north end of the Palace of Westminster, rather than the tower itself. The tower is officially known as the Elizabeth Tower, renamed in 2012 to honor Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee. Big Ben has become a symbol of London and a silent witness to centuries of British history. Big Ben’s origins date back to 1859 when the clock tower was completed, designed by architect Augustus Pugin. The Great Clock of Westminster, with its massive clock faces, is a masterpiece of Victorian engineering, and its reliability has kept London on time for over 160 years. The resonant chimes of the Big Ben bell have marked significant moments in British history, from the end of World War II to the opening ceremonies of major events. Standing at an impressive height of 316 feet (96 meters), the Elizabeth Tower dominates the London skyline, drawing millions of visitors every year. The tower’s Gothic Revival architecture, featuring intricate stonework and ornate detailing, exemplifies the grandeur of 19th-century design. The clock faces, each over 22 feet (7 meters) in diameter, are a marvel of precision and craftsmanship, showcasing the technological prowess of the era. Big Ben’s global recognition extends far beyond London, captivating people around the world with its timeless charm and historical significance. Whether depicted in films, photographs, or artwork, the silhouette of Big Ben against the London sky evokes a sense of nostalgia and wonder. As a cultural landmark and beacon of British identity, Big Ben continues to enchant visitors and locals alike, serving as a vivid reminder of the enduring legacy of London’s architectural heritage.Big Ben – General information
Exploring Big Ben
A Symbol of Time and History
Architectural Splendor
A Global Icon
Big Ben – Additional information (click to expand)
Cool Facts and Popular Aspects of Big Ben
Big Ben is not actually the name of the iconic London clock tower; it refers to the 13.5-ton bell housed within the tower. The tower itself is officially called the Elizabeth Tower, previously known as the Clock Tower.
The Great Bell, inside the Elizabeth Tower, rings every hour and can be heard from miles around. Despite common misconception, Big Ben does not refer to the clock or the tower, but to the Great Bell itself.
Big Ben is renowned for its accuracy and reliability as a timekeeper. Its mechanism is adjusted using old British pennies; one penny added speeds the clock up by two-fifths of a second per day. This precision is crucial for coordinating activities in London.
The tower stands at an impressive height of 316 feet and has 334 steps to reach the belfry. The clock faces – each 23 feet in diameter – are one of the largest in the world. Big Ben is an iconic symbol of London and is synonymous with British culture and history.
Big Ben – Lesser-known information (click to expand)
Construction Details
The clock tower commonly known as Big Ben is part of the Palace of Westminster in London. Despite popular belief, the name “Big Ben” actually refers to the Great Bell of the clock and not the clock or the tower itself. The tower was renamed the Elizabeth Tower in 2012 to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee. It stands at 316 feet tall and its construction was completed in 1859.
Hidden Cabinet Room
Inside the Elizabeth Tower, there is a small room located directly above the clock dials known as the “Prison Room” or the “Cabinet Room.” This room was initially intended as a storeroom for equipment that needed maintenance but was later adapted into a small workroom where the clock mechanics kept spare parts and tools. Not open to the public, very few even know of its existence.
Meticulous Timekeeping
The clock mechanism of Big Ben is renowned for its accuracy, thanks to its innovative design by Edmund Beckett Denison. The pendulum is made of a unique alloy composed mostly of low-expansion iron and zinc, creating a stable and reliable timekeeping system. The clock’s time is adjusted using penny coins placed on the pendulum to regulate its speed, with each penny adding or subtracting two-fifths of a second per day.
Undergoing Renovations
In recent years, Big Ben has undergone significant renovation work to ensure its structural integrity and maintain its iconic appearance. The clock faces were cleaned and regilded in 2020, and ongoing renovations include repairs to the tower’s masonry and the installation of an elevator to improve accessibility. These renovations are crucial to preserving Big Ben for future generations and ensuring it remains a symbol of London’s history and architectural excellence.