1. Royal Residence: The White Tower, the oldest and most iconic part of the Tower of London, served as a royal residence for English kings and queens. Notably, Henry III and Edward I used it as their main residence in London.
2. Prison: The Tower of London was notorious for being a prison, particularly for high-profile individuals. Prominent figures such as Sir Thomas More, Anne Boleyn, and the Princes in the Tower were imprisoned and executed there.
3. Royal Menagerie: During the 13th and 14th centuries, the Tower of London housed a royal menagerie, where exotic animals like lions, bears, and elephants were kept. This was one of the earliest zoos in Europe.
4. Place of Execution: The Tower of London was also used as a place of execution. Many famous prisoners were beheaded on Tower Green, within the Tower's grounds, including Queen Anne Boleyn, Lady Jane Grey, and the Earl of Essex.
5. Armory and Military Storage: The Tower served as a secure armory and storage for weapons, armor, and other military supplies. It played a crucial role in the defense of London during times of war and conflict.
6. Treasury: The Tower of London was used to store the royal treasure and valuables. It housed the Crown Jewels of England, including the Imperial State Crown, and other precious items belonging to the monarchy.
7. Royal Mint: For a period, the Tower of London was also the site of the royal mint. Coins were produced and stored there, contributing to the financial activities of the English kingdom.
8. Tourist Attraction: In modern times, the Tower of London has evolved into a popular tourist attraction. It is one of the most visited historic landmarks in London and showcases its rich and multifaceted history through various exhibitions and displays.
