Byward Tower, Medieval entrance tower in Tower of London complex, England
The Byward Tower is a medieval entrance structure within the Tower of London, comprising two cylindrical towers connected by a square building with a wide passageway secured by a heavy portcullis. This gateway rises above the entrance and controls access to the inner complex.
The tower was built between 1238 and 1272 under King Henry III as part of reinforcing the Tower of London's defenses. This construction was part of a larger effort to upgrade the aging fortress against threats of that era.
The first floor displays a medieval wall painting showing the Virgin Mary and Saint John the Evangelist at the Crucifixion. This rare example of religious art from the period gives a sense of the spiritual life that once filled this space.
The tower serves as the main entrance to the Tower of London complex and features security checkpoints and visitor information desks. Arriving early helps avoid queues, as this gateway handles all traffic entering the fortress.
The name comes from its location next to the Warders Hall, with 'Byward' evolving from the phrase 'by the warders.' This naming reflects how medieval places were often called after the people who worked there and their specific roles.
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