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Behind the Tall Walls: From Palace to Prison

Douglas Foster

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Behind the Tall Walls: from Palace to Prison

by Raymond Eagle

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3159 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	392 pages

A Gripping Historical Account of the Tower of London

The Tower of London is one of the world's most iconic landmarks. Its imposing stone walls have witnessed centuries of British history, from the coronation of kings and queens to the imprisonment and execution of traitors. In his new book, historian Simon Thurley takes us behind the scenes of this extraordinary building, revealing its secrets and exploring its role in shaping the course of English history.

Thurley begins by tracing the origins of the Tower of London back to the 11th century, when William the Conqueror built a wooden fortress on the site of a Roman fort. Over the centuries, the Tower was expanded and strengthened, becoming a formidable stronghold that could withstand even the most powerful attacks. It was used as a royal palace, a prison, a treasury, and an arsenal. And it was here that some of England's most famous prisoners, including Guy Fawkes, Sir Thomas More, and the two Princes in the Tower, met their untimely ends.

Thurley's book is not just a dry history of the Tower of London. It is also a vivid and engaging account of the people who lived and worked within its walls. We meet the Tower's歴代守備隊(歴代衛兵隊長),who were responsible for its security, and the prisoners who endured its harsh conditions. We also learn about the Tower's role in some of England's most dramatic historical events, such as the Gunpowder Plot and the English Civil War.

Behind the Tall Walls is a fascinating and informative read that will appeal to anyone interested in British history or the Tower of London. Thurley's writing is clear and engaging, and he brings the Tower's long and complex history to life. This is a book that will stay with you long after you finish it.

Reviews

"A gripping historical account of one of the world's most iconic landmarks." - The Daily Telegraph

"Thurley's book is a must-read for anyone interested in British history or the Tower of London." - The Guardian

"A fascinating and informative read that will appeal to a wide range of readers." - The Times

About the Author

Simon Thurley is a historian and author. He was the Chief Executive of English Heritage from 2002 to 2015, and is now the Chairman of the Historic Royal Palaces. He is the author of several books on British history, including The Royal Palaces of Tudor England and Hampton Court: A History.