Who first built Big Ben?

Answer 1

Big Ben was designed by Edmund Beckett Denison. And it was built by Messrs E.J. Dent and Co. Sir Charles Barry drew the designs, and architect Edward Pent and his son Frederick Pent built it.

Charles Barry, chief architect turned to Augustus Pugin to help design the tower and clock dials in his neo-gothic style. It was pugin's last major work before he went mad then died aged 40. Charles Barry also died as it was nearing completion. The tower took 16 years to build and was finished and working in 1859. In 2009 it celebrated 150 years.

See the related link below for more information on Augustus Welby Northbourne Pugin.

Answer 2

After the original Palace of Westminster burnt down in 1834, Architect Sir Charles Barry was asked to design a new palace after he won a public competition for this purpose. His colleague and assistant, Augustus Pugin was given the job of designing the clock tower, he based the design on some of his earlier works in the style of neo-gothic.

"Big Ben" is in fact the nickname of "the Great Bell"(13.7 tonnes) which is the largest and heaviest of the five bells inside the tower.

The clock tower was completed in 1859 and Sir Charles Barry died in 1860.

The tower has recently been renamed the 'Elizabeth Tower', in honour and celebration of Queen Elizabeth II in her Diamond Jubilee year.

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Answer 3

Big Ben is the name of the 14 ton bell inside the Clock Tower of the Palace of Westminster. However, over the years, the clock itself has become known as 'Big Ben'. It was named after the Commissioner of works, Sir Benjamin Hall. The clock tower is part of the parliament buildings which were built to replace the previous building which was destroyed in a fire.

Answer 4

Agustus Pugin

Answer 5

John Nicklesen