What was the THE ROYAL MENAGERIE in tower of London?

The Tower of London's Royal Menagerie was a collection of animals owned by the English royal family and housed within the medieval Tower. It existed for several centuries, from the 13th century until its closure in the early 19th century.

History:

During the reign of King Edward I in the late 13th century, the Royal Menagerie was established in the Tower. The kings of England considered the possession of exotic animals as symbols of their power and wealth, and the menagerie served to showcase the royal collection.

Collection:

Over time, the Royal Menagerie grew to house a diverse range of animals, including lions, tigers, leopards, bears, elephants, monkeys, wolves, and various species of birds. Some animals were acquired through trade or expeditions, while others were given as gifts from rulers and foreign dignitaries.

Royal Lions:

The Tower of London was particularly renowned for its collection of lions, which were revered symbols of the monarchy. The Royal Lions were kept in a dedicated Lion Tower and were well cared for by royal keepers. They were often displayed to visitors and even featured in celebrations and ceremonies.

Closure:

In the early 19th century, public sentiment toward animal welfare shifted, and the keeping of wild animals in captivity came under scrutiny. Concerns about the treatment of animals in the menagerie led to criticism and pressure for reform.

In 1831, the Royal Menagerie was closed by King William IV, and the animals were relocated to various zoos and animal collections. This marked the end of the illustrious history of the Tower of London as a home for exotic animals.