The story of the Tower of London is, in many respects, the story of England, and it is now retold with fresh insight by Tracy Borman in this lavishly illustrated new book. When building work began on the fortress after the Norman Conquest of 1066, the capital was little more than a small town, with about 10,000 inhabitants. Almost 1000 years later, the fortress still stands as symbol of royal power, tradition, heritage and military might. In that time the Tower has witnessed pomp and ceremony but also treachery and torture. Those murdered or executed within its walls include the Princes in the Tower, Henry VI, Anne Boleyn and Lady Jane Grey. ‘The Story of the Tower of London’ reveals the intriguing stories, dramatic events and vibrant characters that comprise the remarkable history of this iconic site. As well as being a formidable fortress and a royal residence, the Tower has served many other functions, from state prison and weapons factory to royal mint, menagerie and, of course, secure repository for the Crown Jewels. Today it remains a living institution with a rich ceremonial life, and attracts millions of visitors from across the world each year. AUTHOR: Tracy Borman is joint Chief Curator of Historic Royal Palaces. She has worked for various national heritage organizations, including the Heritage Lottery Fund, the National Archives and English Heritage. An acclaimed writer and historian, she is the author of Elizabeth’s Women(2009), Witches (2013) and Thomas Cromwell (2014), among other titles. Published in association with Historic Royal Palaces SELLING POINTS: . A fascinating new chronicle of this magnificent site, one of the most popular historic monuments in the world . Presents the many and varied stories that make up the Tower’s extraordinary history from its Roman origins to the present day . Illustrations, accompanied by informative, narrative-style captions . Specially commissioned by the Tower of London 200 colour illustrations