Big Ben – The timeless symbol of London

When you think of London, one landmark immediately comes to mind: Big Ben. Although many use the name to refer to the entire clock tower at the Palace of Westminster, Big Ben actually refers only to the large bell inside. The tower's official name is the Elizabeth Tower, named in 2012 in honor of Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee.

Completed in 1859, the tower is a timeless symbol of England. Its deep chimes are broadcast worldwide, for example on New Year's Eve or during important events, and are among the most recognizable sounds in Great Britain. At over 96 meters high, the tower is a masterpiece of Victorian engineering and a proud landmark of London.

Big Ben has also found its way into the English language. Expressions like "the clock is ticking" or allusions to "Big Ben striking twelve" appear in literature, films, and even political speeches. For English learners, such cultural references bring the language to life.

That's why I like to incorporate famous landmarks like Big Ben into my private English lessons in Sangerhausen (or online). This way, we connect grammar and vocabulary with real culture. Learning English isn't just about rules from textbooks; it's also about understanding the idioms, stories, and backgrounds that make the language unique.

Whether you are planning a trip to London or simply want to get to know English culture better, Big Ben is more than just a clock: it is a symbol of history, tradition and language.