Interpretations and Perceptions of the Tower of London

Interpretations and Perceptions of the Tower of London: Can the truth get in the way of a good story?

A Talk by Alfred Hawkins, Salisbury Cathedral Archaeologist

The Tower of London is one of the most recognisable and infamous buildings in the world. The fortress is well known as the palace of kings and queens, a place of imprisonment, torture, and execution, the site of sensational intrigue and murder, alongside being the home of the Yeoman Warders and our famous ravens.

But how, and why, have the perceptions of the Tower of London changed over time? And how have these perceptions impacted the myths which colour the fortress’s varied history? From the Tower’s legendary origins to the burial place of Anne Boleyn and the alteration of the site in the Victorian period – this talk will discuss the creation of the current perception the fortress both in terms of its architectural development, and of the myths and stories which have made the Tower such an iconic part of British History, and how we tell those stories today.

The talk will be followed by a short Q&A.

About the Speaker

Alfred R. J. Hawkins

Alfred R. J. Hawkins is Curator of Historic Buildings at HM Tower of London for Historic Royal Palaces, where he advises on major development projects and the ongoing conservation of one of Britain’s most significant historic sites. Alongside this role, he has recently been appointed Cathedral Archaeologist at Salisbury Cathedral and also serves as Cathedral Archaeologist at Portsmouth Cathedral.

As Cathedral Archaeologist, Alfred acts as a professional consultant to Chapter, advising on all matters under archaeological responsibility and supporting the careful management of the Cathedral and Close’s historic fabric and heritage.

Alfred has worked extensively across the commercial archaeology and heritage sectors as an archaeological researcher, field archaeologist, and historic buildings specialist. His expertise includes archaeological best practice, the treatment of human remains, building conservation, and ecclesiastical law, with a particular interest in cathedrals and royal peculiars (historic churches that fall outside the normal diocesan structure).

He is also an established writer and broadcaster, with television appearances including BBC Two’s Digging for Britain, Channel 5’s Inside the Tower of London, and Discovery Channel’s Unearthed, bringing archaeological research and historic buildings to a wide public audience.

This event is organised by Salisbury Cathedral.
Tickets are available through the Cathedral Box Office

For visitors with access requirements, or if you require an essential companion to accompany you, please contact the Cathedral Box Office to book your tickets.

The Cathedral Box Office is available Monday – Friday between 10am-4pm.
Email: Boxoffice@salcath.co.uk. Tel: 01722 656 555.