The Tower of London

Topographical and Statistical Descripiont of the County of Middlesex, etc. (1810) by George Alexander Cooke

Passing through a number of narrow and dirty streets, we arrive at Little Tower Hill, where the gloomy appearance of the Tower, surrounded by its broad and stagnating moat, naturally arrest our attention. This fortress is well situated to answer the purposes of its erection ; upon a wharf, which divides it from the river, are mounted above 60 nine-pounders,which are chiefly employed for rejoicings. The Tower was built by William the Conqueror, in the (irst year of his reign, for the purpose of inforcing the submission of his new subjects: in the year 1078, the large square tower, known by the name of the White Tower, was erected under the superintendance of Gundulph, who, though the bishop of Rochester, was the first military architect of his time. The walls of this tower are 11 feet thick, and have a winding stair continued along two of their sides; it was for a long time called Caesar's Tower, and originally stood by itself; by Fitz-Stephen it is denominated the Arx Palatina, and the title of Palatine was conferred upon its governor; within this building stands an antient Chapel, dedicated to St. John, and designed for the use of the Royal Family.

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