The Tower of London is a historic castle located in central London. Originally built in the 11th century as a palace for William the Conqueror, it has since served as a royal residence, a prison, and even a menagerie for exotic animals. In this article, we will explore the animals that were once kept in the Tower of London.
The Royal Menagerie
During the reign of King John in the 13th century, the Tower of London became home to a collection of exotic animals known as the Royal Menagerie. This collection included lions, tigers, bears, elephants, and even crocodiles.
Lions
Lions were perhaps the most famous animals kept in the Tower of London. They were first introduced during the reign of King Richard I in the 12th century and were used as symbols of royal power and strength. The lions were often kept in pits or cages within the castle walls and were fed with meat from deer and oxen.
Elephants
Elephants were also part of the Royal Menagerie at the Tower of London. They were first brought to England by King Henry III in 1255 as gifts from foreign rulers. The elephants were housed in large stables within the castle grounds and were fed with hay, vegetables, and fruits.
Other Animals
In addition to lions and elephants, other animals that were kept in the Tower included tigers, leopards, bears, camels, kangaroos, monkeys, and even an African elephant named Jumbo who arrived at the Tower in 1865.
The End of The Menagerie
Over time, attitudes towards keeping wild animals captive began to change. In 1835, after more than 600 years as a menagerie for exotic animals, the Tower of London’s Royal Menagerie was closed down. Many of the animals were sent to the newly established London Zoo.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Tower of London was once home to a fascinating collection of exotic animals. From lions and elephants to tigers and bears, the Royal Menagerie was a symbol of royal power and prestige. While attitudes towards keeping wild animals captive have changed over time, the legacy of the Tower of London’s menagerie lives on in history and popular culture.
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