The name Big Ben doesn’t refer to the chapel clock in London, but to the 13-ton bell that rings in the clock tower.
The “Ben” behind the bell was Sir Benjamin Hall, the first commissioner of works at the time of installation in 1856.
A loud man, it’s said. So the name was very appropriate.
The light above the clock face of Big Ben is sometimes lit and sometimes not for a reason. You’re observant if you noticed this.
There is a traditional reason, actually: When the light is shining, Parliament is in session.
We guess the lords wanted to be able to keep track of the time.
