Renovation of London's iconic Big Ben almost done

After five years under extensive renovations, Big Ben, the world’s most famous clock, is back and delighting tourists and Londoners alike. Works to return the Elizabeth Tower to its full Victorian glory cost no less than $100 million.

An estimated 500 people have worked on the site since 2017. Infamously, Big Ben's dials have been changed from black to blue. The clock-face is now illuminated by energy-saving LED lights.

The 1859 tower, designed by Charles Barry and Augustus Pugin, had 700 pieces of stone replaced much of its masonry mended and other damages repaired.  Inside, the building had a 21st century update, with a toilet and a lift installed on the premises.

The bell for which the Elizabeth Tower is best known, Big Ben, has stayed intact and was rung for the first time in five years at midnight of January 1, 2022. The landmark will open back to visitors later in the year.