London Bridge is an iconic landmark that has stood the test of time. It represents the history and culture of London, but what happened to the heads that were once displayed on it? Let’s dive into the gruesome history of this famous bridge.
The Beginnings of London Bridge
The first iteration of London Bridge was built by the Romans in AD 50. It was a simple wooden structure that spanned the River Thames. Over time, the bridge was rebuilt and expanded with more durable materials like stone and concrete.
The Tradition of Displaying Heads
During medieval times, it was common for authorities to display traitors’ heads on spikes as a warning to others. This practice continued in England for centuries, and London Bridge became a popular spot for displaying heads.
The Heads on London Bridge
The heads that were displayed on London Bridge were not just any ordinary heads. They belonged to notorious criminals and traitors who had been executed for their crimes against the crown. The sight of these decapitated heads was meant to strike fear into anyone who dared to cross the bridge without permission.
The End of an Era
The practice of displaying heads on London Bridge came to an end in 1678 when the last head was removed. By this time, there were over 30 heads on display, some of which had been there for decades.
What Happened to the Heads?
After they were removed from London Bridge, most of the heads were discarded or buried in unmarked graves. However, some were preserved and put on display in museums or other public places.
One famous example is Oliver Cromwell’s head, which was displayed on a spike outside Westminster Hall after his death in 1658. It remained there for over 20 years before being taken down and eventually sold to private collectors.
Another example is the head of William Wallace, which was displayed on London Bridge in 1305. It was eventually taken down and sent to Scotland where it was buried with full honors.
The Legacy of London Bridge
Today, London Bridge stands as a symbol of the city’s rich history and culture. While the gruesome practice of displaying heads may be a thing of the past, it serves as a reminder of how far society has come in terms of justice and punishment.
In conclusion, the heads that were once displayed on London Bridge belonged to notorious criminals and traitors who were executed for their crimes. While this practice may seem barbaric by today’s standards, it was a common form of punishment during medieval times. Thankfully, London Bridge has evolved into a more peaceful landmark that represents the city’s vibrant history and culture.
10 Related Question Answers Found
On the evening of June 3, 2017, a horrific incident occurred at London Bridge that shook the entire world. It was a terrorist attack that claimed the lives of eight innocent people and injured dozens more. The attack began when a van drove into pedestrians on London Bridge, after which three attackers got out of the vehicle and started attacking people with knives.
The London Bridge Experience is a thrilling and educational attraction that takes visitors on a journey through the history of one of London’s most iconic landmarks. From its humble beginnings to its modern-day significance, this immersive experience offers a unique perspective on the history and legacy of the London Bridge. Overview
Upon entering the London Bridge Experience, visitors are immediately transported back in time to the days when the original bridge was first constructed.
London Bridges Falling Down is a well-known nursery rhyme that has captured the imaginations of children and adults alike for centuries. This catchy tune has been sung by generations, but have you ever wondered about the story behind it? Let’s dive into the history of London Bridges Falling Down and uncover its fascinating origins.
The London Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. It connects the city of London to Southwark, and it has been a vital part of the city’s history since its construction in 1209. However, many people don’t know that the current London Bridge is not the original one.
London Bridge is Falling Down: The Mysterious Story Behind the Popular Nursery Rhyme
If you grew up in an English-speaking country, chances are you’ve heard the popular nursery rhyme “London Bridge is Falling Down.” The catchy tune and repetitive lyrics have been passed down from generation to generation, but have you ever wondered about the story behind it? Origins of the Rhyme
While the exact origins of the rhyme are unknown, historians believe it dates back to at least the 17th century. One theory suggests that it was inspired by the numerous collapses and reconstructions of London Bridge throughout history.
London Bridge is a historical landmark that has stood the test of time for centuries. It has been a symbol of London for over 2,000 years and has seen many changes throughout its existence. But what happened to the old London Bridge?
London Bridge Is Falling Down is a popular nursery rhyme that has been sung by children for centuries. It is a catchy tune with a simple melody, but have you ever wondered what the true meaning of the song is? In this article, we will explore the history and theories behind London Bridge Is Falling Down.
London Bridge Is Falling Down is one of the most popular nursery rhymes that has been sung for generations. The melody of this song is catchy and easy to remember, making it a favorite among kids and adults alike. However, the true meaning behind this song is often overlooked.
On the night of September 2, 1666, a small fire broke out in a bakery on Pudding Lane in London. Little did anyone know that this seemingly innocuous event would go on to become one of the most catastrophic incidents in the city’s history – the Great Fire of London. The fire quickly spread throughout the city, fueled by strong winds and dry weather.
London Bridge Is Falling Down is a classic children’s song that has been enjoyed for generations. It’s a fun and easy game that can be played by kids of all ages. In this tutorial, we will teach you how to play London Bridge Is Falling Down.
