Is Big Ben in London or Paris?

By Michael Ferguson

Big Ben is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world. It is synonymous with London and is often used as a symbol to represent the city.

However, some people may wonder if Big Ben is actually located in Paris. So, where exactly is Big Ben located

What is Big Ben

Before we answer that question, let’s first define what Big Ben actually is. Many people assume that Big Ben refers to the clock tower itself, but this isn’t entirely accurate. The name “Big Ben” actually refers to the bell inside the clock tower.

The clock tower itself is officially known as Elizabeth Tower and stands at over 96 meters tall. It was completed in 1859 and is located on the north end of the Palace of Westminster, which houses the Houses of Parliament.

So, Where is Big Ben Located

The answer to this question is simple: London! Despite what some may think, Big Ben is not located in Paris.

The confusion around this likely comes from a similar structure located in Paris called Tour Eiffel (Eiffel Tower). However, while both structures are iconic landmarks in their respective cities, they are not interchangeable!

Facts About Big Ben

  • Big Ben weighs over 13 tons and stands at over 7 feet tall
  • The clock face has a diameter of over 23 feet
  • The bell was named after Sir Benjamin Hall, who oversaw its installation
  • Big Ben has chimed almost continuously since its installation but was silenced for renovations from August 2017 – December 2021

In Conclusion

There you have it – Big Ben is located in London, not Paris. While the two cities share many similarities, they also have distinct landmarks that set them apart. Big Ben is an iconic symbol of London and will continue to be for generations to come.