Castles Are Medieval Works of Art

On Saturday I went to the Tower of London with Mom and Dad, and I have never been so in awe of a building before. Even the cobblestone streets were impressive! I know a castle isn't very practical in this day and age (and in America), but I think they're so beautiful and I wish I could build one myself! All the stonework, the beautiful stairwells and grand halls, it really makes you stop and imagine how people lived hundreds of years ago.

Because we went on a Saturday, it turned out to be a main tourist day. The line to go see the crown jewels wrapped around several buildings, and had to be at least 2 hours long! I had wanted to see them, but I wasn't too disappointed. Instead, we ventured over to the armoury and I was awed once more; this time not my the arching windows or patterned stone, but by the magnificent suits of armor. I've always been interested in knights, and one of my favorite things to read is Arthurian fiction--Knights of the Round Table and all that.

Some of the suits of armor are completely unreal. To even imagine walking around in those heavy metal outfits is painful. The helmets alone weigh about 17 kg. In the heat of summer, I would be passing out left and right! Knights were strong, in more ways than one. It was a very hard life, and certainly not as glamorous as it is often painted as. I'm still fascinated by the medieval time period, and I'd like to learn more about it in the future. Walking through the White Tower and seeing all the armor and weapons just whet my appetite for more!

The grounds around the tower were beautiful as well. Some people were walking around in period costume, and it was fun to see the billowing skirts and fancy suits! I joked with Dad that someday I'd like to do that--perhaps I'll be one of the people at Virginia City who dresses up for people to take pictures with! It just looked so fun and added to the atmosphere.

The tower isn't just a tourist attraction, however. While eating an ice cream cone after looking at the armoury, we saw a bride walking across the cobblestones with her father, both in full garb, over to the chapel inside the tower so she could be married. It was a very touching sight, and made me think how the tower isn't just a stagnant medieval landmark. It's still used today--although for different things--and it's still impacting people's lives. It's a beautiful area with history and a future. I hope I'll get to visit there again soon.

Best wishes from London,
Kelly