London, Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge (often mistakenly called the London Bridge by Americans) has stood over the River Thames in London since 1894, and is one of the most recognizable bridges in the World. The middle span of the bridge can be raised to permit large vessels to pass. It used to be raised about 50 times a day, but nowadays it is raised perhaps 4 to 5 times a week. Visitors to the bridge can enjoy breath-taking views from the high-level walkways.

If it is remembered correctly, this photo was snapped while standing near the Tower of London. Now the repository of the Crown Jewels, in the past it has been the seat of British government, and the living quarters of monarchs, notorious traitors, framed members of court, lords and ministers, clergymen and knights. There were many sea-gulls flying in the neighborhood, so I waited until one was close enough to be "in the picture."

Moored near the Tower Bridge (out of sight, to the right of this photo), H.M.S. Belfast is Europe's only surviving big gun armored warship from the Second World War.