If you’re ever curious about where do they keep the crown jewels, then it’s time to step inside the Tower of London! For centuries, the Tower of London has been a symbol of royal power, where kings and queens have held court and safeguarded their treasures. But what many people don’t realize is that beneath the imposing walls and turrets lies a hidden world of precious jewels, crowns, and sceptres that have been kept safe for generations.
The crown jewels are one of the most iconic and valuable collections of objects in the world, but they’re not just a symbol of wealth and power. They also represent an important part of the history of the British monarchy, from the coronation of William the Conqueror in 1066 to the present day. Over the centuries, the jewel collection has grown and changed with each new monarch, with new pieces being added to the collection and old ones being updated and remodelled.
So, where do they keep the crown jewels? Well, the answer is simple: they are kept in a specially designed vault beneath the Tower of London! The vault is state-of-the-art, with a sophisticated security system that includes motion detectors, pressure sensors, and 24-hour surveillance. Every night, the jewels are locked away in the vault, ensuring that they are kept safe and secure for future generations to admire and treasure.
History of the Crown Jewels
The Crown Jewels are an exceptional collection of regalia made up of crowns, sceptres, orbs, swords, and other items that are symbolic of 800 years of the British monarchy. The Crown Jewels have been an integral aspect of the coronation of monarchs and are regarded as the most valuable treasures steeped in tradition, folklore, and history.
The origins of the Crown Jewels date back to the reign of Edward the Confessor in the 11th century. He was the first monarch to have a crown, which he thought was a way of establishing his right to rule. Over the years, the Crown Jewels have continued to be a significant representation of the power and wealth of the British monarchy.
- The oldest piece of regalia is the Anointing Spoon, dating back to 12th century.
- The Imperial State Crown, made in 1838, is the most iconic piece of the Crown Jewels, featuring 2,868 diamonds, 273 pearls, 17 sapphires, 11 emeralds, and 5 rubies.
- The Crown Jewels were hidden during World War II, and the Tower of London was guarded by female Yeoman Warders for the first time.
The Crown Jewels have been housed in the Tower of London since the 14th century, and they remain on display for people to view and admire. The collection can be seen at the Jewel House, a specially built turret in the Tower of London that offers visitors a chance to witness this awe-inspiring and historical collection in person.
The Crown Jewels are not only a testament to the history of the British monarchy but also to the country’s artistry and craftsmanship. The collection is a marvel of diamonds, pearls, and precious stones, and they are a symbol of the enduring cultural legacy of Great Britain.
| Year | Monarch | Coronation Regalia |
|---|---|---|
| 1066 | William the Conqueror | The Coronation Spoon and Coronation Chair |
| 1220 | Henry III | The Crown, Sceptre, Mace, and Sword of State |
| 1838 | Queen Victoria | The Imperial State Crown |
| 1937 | King George VI | The Sword of Offering |
The Crown Jewels’ history is fascinating, and they are an essential part of the British heritage. They have been passed down from one generation to another, each piece carrying with it a profound sense of history that is both informative and inspiring.
The Tower of London
The Tower of London, also known as Her Majesty’s Royal Palace and Fortress, is one of the most iconic landmarks of London. The Tower has played a significant role in British history, from being a royal palace and a prison to a treasury and the home to the Crown Jewels.
Where are the Crown Jewels kept in the Tower of London?
- The Jewel House – The Crown Jewels are kept in the Jewel House, a secure building located within the walls of the Tower of London. The Jewel House was built in 1669 and has since been renovated and expanded to accommodate the impressive collection of crowns, scepters, and other royal regalia.
- The Martin Tower – The Martin Tower, one of the White Tower’s turrets, was used as a store to keep the Crown Jewels from the early 14th century until the 17th century, when they were moved to the Jewel House.
- The Salt Tower – The Salt Tower was used to store the Crown Jewels in the 16th and 17th centuries before they were moved to the Jewel House.
Why are the Crown Jewels kept in the Tower of London?
The Crown Jewels are kept in the Tower of London because it is a secure location with a long history of protecting valuable objects and important prisoners. The Tower has been a fortress for over 900 years and has been used to store the Crown Jewels since at least the 14th century.
The Tower is also an iconic symbol of the British monarchy and the Crown Jewels are a significant part of the country’s history and heritage. They are used in official ceremonies and are a popular tourist attraction, drawing millions of visitors to the Tower every year.
The Crown Jewels Collection
The Crown Jewels collection includes some of the most precious and valuable objects in the world. The collection includes crowns, scepters, orbs, swords, and other royal regalia that have been used by British monarchs for centuries.
| Object | Description |
|---|---|
| The Imperial State Crown | The Imperial State Crown is the most famous and iconic of all crowns. It was made in 1937 and was worn by Queen Elizabeth II during her coronation in 1953. |
| The Sovereign’s Sceptre with Cross | The Sovereign’s Sceptre with Cross is one of the most visually impressive items in the collection and is made of gold, diamonds, and rubies. |
| The Royal Orb | The Royal Orb is made of gold and encrusted with diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds. It is topped with a diamond known as the Cullinan I (or the Great Star of Africa), which is the largest clear cut diamond in the world. |
The Crown Jewels collection is not only a symbol of British royalty and power, but it is also a testament to the skilled craftsmanship of the jewelers who have created and maintained these precious objects over the centuries.
Security Measures for the Crown Jewels
As one of the most treasured collections in the world, the whereabouts of the Crown Jewels is kept under lock and key. The Tower of London is home to the Crown Jewels and is guarded by a regiment of soldiers known as the Yeomen Warders. But physical security is not the only measure taken to protect these precious jewels. Here are three key security measures put in place:
Specialized Alarm System
- The Tower of London is equipped with a cutting-edge alarm system.
- The alarm system is monitored 24 hours a day by a team of security professionals.
- If the alarm is triggered, the Yeomen Warders respond immediately to investigate the cause.
Multiple Layers of Security Checks
Anyone who comes into contact with the Crown Jewels is subjected to multiple layers of security checks. These include:
- A thorough background check and vetting process
- Strict dress code requirements, with all personnel required to wear a uniform and no large pockets allowed
- Bag checks and metal detectors at the entrance to the Jewel House
Security Cameras
The entire Tower of London, including the Jewel House, is under constant surveillance via security cameras. This allows security personnel to monitor the movements of everyone within the premises in real-time. The system is also equipped with facial recognition technology to help identify unauthorized personnel.
Conclusion
With all these security measures in place, the Crown Jewels are kept safe and secure 24/7.
| Security Measure | Description |
|---|---|
| Specialized Alarm System | The Tower of London is equipped with a cutting-edge alarm system which is monitored 24/7. |
| Multiple Layers of Security Checks | Anyone who comes into contact with the Crown Jewels is subjected to multiple layers of security checks, including background checks, dress code requirements, and bag checks. |
| Security Cameras | The entire Tower of London, including the Jewel House, is under constant surveillance via security cameras equipped with facial recognition technology. |
The Crown Jewels are kept safe and secure, ensuring that this treasured collection will be enjoyed by people around the world for generations to come.
The Crown Jewels During World War II
During World War II, one of the biggest concerns for the British was the safety of the Crown Jewels. The jewels hold immense historical and cultural significance for the nation, and their loss would have been a devastating blow. In the face of the German threat, the authorities took several measures to ensure that the jewels remained safe and secure.
- First and foremost, the jewels were moved from their usual location in the Tower of London to a secret location, which was only known to a handful of people. The move was carried out in the dead of night, and even the most senior staff members at the Tower were not informed of the exact destination.
- The jewels were then dispersed across various locations throughout the country, with each location being heavily guarded by armed forces personnel. This ensured that even if one location was compromised, the rest of the jewels would remain safe.
- Extra precautions were also taken during air raids, with the jewels being moved to an underground vault for added protection. These vaults were designed to withstand bomb blasts and offered an additional layer of security.
The authorities were successful in keeping the Crown Jewels safe throughout the war, and they were eventually returned to the Tower of London in 1945. During their time away, they became a symbol of hope and resilience for the British people, who took comfort in the knowledge that their most precious treasures were being guarded with utmost care.
Here is a table summarizing the key facts about the Crown Jewels during World War II:
| Measure taken | Reason |
|---|---|
| Move from Tower of London | To keep them away from potential German attacks |
| Dispersion across multiple locations | To ensure that even if one location was compromised, other jewels would remain safe |
| Storage in underground vault during air raids | To provide added protection against bomb blasts |
In conclusion, the authorities took extensive measures to protect the Crown Jewels during World War II, and were successful in keeping them safe throughout the conflict. The story of their protection serves as a reminder of the resilience and determination of the British people in the face of great adversity.
The Coronation Regalia
The crown jewels are a symbol of the British monarchy, and they are kept in the Tower of London. The collection consists of various items including the coronation regalia.
The Coronation Regalia
- The St Edward’s Crown: This is the crown that is used to crown the monarch during the coronation ceremony. It was made in 1661 and weighs nearly 5 pounds. The crown has 444 precious stones and 12 pearls.
- The Orb: The monarch holds the orb in their left hand during the coronation ceremony. It represents the monarch’s role as the defender of the Christian faith. The orb is made of gold and is decorated with precious stones.
- The Sceptre with the Cross: The monarch holds the sceptre with the cross in their right hand during the coronation ceremony. The sceptre represents the monarch’s temporal power. It was made in 1661 and is made of gold and is decorated with precious stones.
- The Sceptre with the Dove: The monarch holds the sceptre with the dove during the coronation ceremony. The sceptre represents the monarch’s spiritual power. It was made in 1661 and is made of gold and is decorated with precious stones.
- The Coronation Spoon: The spoon is used to anoint the monarch with holy oil. It was made in 1660 and is made of gold. The spoon is decorated with precious stones and has a pear-shaped bowl.
The History of the Coronation Regalia
The coronation regalia has a long and fascinating history. The St Edward’s Crown was made for the coronation of Charles II in 1661. The crown has been used in every coronation ceremony since then, except for the coronation of Mary II and William III in 1689. The coronation spoon was made for the coronation of Charles II’s wife, Catherine of Braganza, in 1662. The other items in the coronation regalia were also made for the coronation of Charles II.
The Value of the Coronation Regalia
The coronation regalia is of immense historical and cultural value. It is considered priceless and is one of the most valuable collections of jewels in the world. The exact value of the coronation regalia is unknown, but it is estimated to be worth billions of pounds.
The Security of the Coronation Regalia
The crown jewels are kept in the Tower of London and are protected by several layers of security measures. The Tower of London is guarded by the Yeomen Warders, also known as the Beefeaters. In addition, there are strict security measures in place, including CCTV cameras, alarms, and security personnel.
| Security Measures | Description |
|---|---|
| Yeomen Warders | They are responsible for guarding the Tower of London. They wear a distinctive uniform and are highly trained. |
| CCTV Cameras | There are hundreds of CCTV cameras located throughout the Tower of London. |
| Alarms | If an intruder is detected, alarms are triggered, and the Tower is locked down. |
| Security Personnel | There are security personnel stationed throughout the Tower of London. |
The security measures in place ensure that the crown jewels are kept safe and secure, and they can be enjoyed by visitors from around the world for generations to come.
Other Royal Treasures Held at the Tower of London
Besides the Crown Jewels, the Tower of London is home to a vast collection of other important Royal Treasures. Here are some of the most significant ones:
- The Coronation Chair – This chair has been used in coronation ceremonies for British monarchs since the 14th century. It is made of oak and decorated with intricate carvings and gold leaf.
- The Sovereign’s Sceptre – This sceptre is a symbol of the monarch’s power and features the world’s largest cut diamond, the Cullinan I, at its top.
- The Imperial State Crown – Worn by the monarch during the State Opening of Parliament, this crown is adorned with over 2,800 diamonds, as well as sapphires, emeralds, and pearls.
In addition to these specific items, the Tower of London also houses a vast collection of arms and armor, including suits of armor worn by famous British kings and knights, and a collection of royal artillery.
The importance of these treasures and the Tower of London’s role in safeguarding them cannot be overstated. They are not just valuable objects, but important symbols of British history, power, and continuity.
Here is a table that summarizes some of the most famous royal treasures housed at the Tower of London:
| Treasure | Description |
|---|---|
| The Crown Jewels | A collection of crowns, sceptres, orbs, and other regalia used in coronation ceremonies and other royal events. |
| The Coronation Chair | A wooden chair used in coronation ceremonies since the 14th century. |
| The Sovereign’s Sceptre | A gold sceptre with the world’s largest cut diamond set at its top. |
| The Imperial State Crown | A crown worn by the monarch during the State Opening of Parliament, adorned with over 2,800 diamonds and other precious stones. |
| Suits of Armor | A collection of armor worn by British kings and knights throughout history. |
| Royal Artillery Collection | A collection of artillery pieces used by the British royal army, including cannons, mortars, and handguns. |
Visitors to the Tower of London can view many of these treasures and artifacts in the Jewel House and the White Tower. They offer a unique glimpse into Britain’s past and the enduring legacy of its monarchy.
The Future of the Crown Jewels
As the United Kingdom’s most important cultural treasures, the Crown Jewels have faced some challenges in their past. From attempted heists to natural disasters, these priceless artifacts require special care to preserve their historical significance for future generations. Here are few things to consider regarding the future of the Crown Jewels:
- Technological Advancements: With the help of modern technology, new methods for preserving the Crown Jewels are constantly being developed. Scientists are researching new ways to protect the jewels from damage, such as using specialized lighting to reduce the risk of fading and adapting advanced climate control systems to maintain the ideal temperature and humidity levels.
- Changes in Display Methods: The way the Crown Jewels are displayed is changing to accommodate the growing number of visitors. Currently, they are on view at the Jewel House at the Tower of London, but there are talks of constructing a new museum to house these treasures, which would allow for more people to see them and provide more space for educational exhibitions.
- Increased Security: As the Crown Jewels are one of the biggest tourist attractions in London, ensuring their safety is crucial. The Tower of London has implemented stricter security measures to deter potential thieves, including new surveillance cameras, regular inspections of the locking mechanisms, and a dedicated police force to safeguard the area.
- Financial Investment: To ensure that the Crown Jewels remain protected and preserved for the future, significant financial investments are needed. The UK government provides funding for the Jewel House’s maintenance, but more funds are necessary to undertake extensive renovation and repair work. Charities and private donors also play a vital role in the upkeep of these invaluable treasures.
Finally, it is worth noting that the Crown Jewels will remain an essential part of British culture and a symbol of royal legacy for years to come.
| Year | Number of Visitors to Tower of London |
|---|---|
| 2016 | 2.74 million |
| 2017 | 2.83 million |
| 2018 | 2.86 million |
| 2019 | 2.66 million |
The above table shows that the popularity of the Crown Jewels as a tourist attraction isn’t slowing down. It is a testament to their cultural significance and highlights the importance of the steps that the UK government, Tower of London staff, and other organizations have taken to ensure their preservation and security.
Frequently Asked Questions about Where Do They Keep the Crown Jewels?
1. Where are the crown jewels stored?
The crown jewels are stored in the Jewel House at the Tower of London, which is a secure installation designed to protect the treasures.
2. Who guards the crown jewels?
The crown jewels are guarded by the Yeoman Warders of the Tower of London, also known as the Beefeaters. They are responsible for the safety and security of the jewels, as well as providing tours and information to visitors.
3. Can visitors see the crown jewels?
Yes, visitors to the Tower of London can view the crown jewels in the Jewel House, which is open to the public. However, there may be restrictions or limited viewing times during high-season or special events.
4. Are the crown jewels insured?
Yes, the crown jewels are insured, but the precise details of the policy are not disclosed to the public. It is likely that they are insured for a substantial amount of money, considering their historical and cultural value.
5. How often are the crown jewels moved?
The crown jewels are rarely moved, as they are considered too valuable and fragile. However, on occasion, they may be temporarily transferred to other locations, such as for display in an exhibit or for safekeeping during an emergency.
6. How old are the crown jewels?
The crown jewels include many pieces that are hundreds of years old, with some pieces dating back to the medieval times. New pieces have also been added over the years, including the Imperial State Crown, which was made in 1937.
7. Can the crown jewels be sold?
Technically, the crown jewels are the property of the monarchy and cannot be sold or otherwise disposed of. In addition to their historical and cultural value, they are considered a symbol of national pride and identity.
Closing Thoughts
Thanks for learning more about where the crown jewels are kept! As you can see, the jewels are housed in a secure location in the Tower of London and are carefully guarded by the Yeoman Warders. Visitors are welcome to view the jewels, which include pieces that are hundreds of years old and are considered a symbol of national pride. We hope you’ll visit again soon for more intriguing historical facts!