3 fascinating clock towers across the globe 

Clock tower—the very name evokes the image of a towering structure with a large clock at the top or maybe. For some, clock tower is almost synonymous to London’s Big Ben. Though it is one of the most renowned tourist attractions globally in its own right, there are many more worth looking up to, literally! Today, we take you on a trip to three of the most impressive clock towers from all over the world.  

Peace Tower, Canada
Better known as the Tower of Victory and Peace, the Peace Tower is a focal bell and clock tower positioned in the central block of Ottawa’s parliament building. It was known as the Victoria Tower, which was 55 metres tall. It was built between 1859 and 1866 by Canadian architect Thomas Fuller. Unfortunately, it got destroyed due to a fire in 1916. The tower was then redesigned by two Canadian architects, John A. Pearson and Jean Omer Marchand. A large clock face was added, and the design was changed from Victorian high gothic to modern gothic. It was then named as the Peace Tower in 1920. The aim of the nomenclature was to honour of Canadian martyrs who fought in the World War I. At present, the Peace Tower is approximately 98 metres high with stone carvings, sandstone walls and a copper roof. This Canadian icon now features on their $20 note.

Makkah Royal Clock Tower, Saudi Arabia
If you are interested in visiting the world’s largest clock tower, you must plan a trip to Makkah in Saudi Arabia. Also known as the holiest place for Muslims, the Makkah Royal clock tower is part of the famous Abraj Al-Bait Complex. It has four gigantic clock faces. The steel structure is as tall as 1972 feet and was built in 2012. Interestingly, this clock tower is the fourth tallest building in the world. Its speciality? Well, every day, the clocks issue as many as five prayer calls with the help of thousands of automated green and white LED lights and speakers. The light beams also notify people with hearing challenges about prayer timings.

Husainabad Clock Tower, India 
Lucknow, a city in Uttar Pradesh, India, is home to some of the country’s most well-recognised monuments, such as the Bhool Bhulaiya or the Chhota and Bara Immambara among others. However, did you know Lucknow also houses one of India’s oldest clock tower, the Husainabad Clock Tower? Well, it was built in 1881 by Husainabad Trust to mark the arrival of Sir George Couper, the first Lieutenant Governor of the United Province of Awadh. Husainabad clock tower was designed by British architect Richard Roskell Bayne based on the Victorian Gothic style. This 67-metre high clock tower, the tallest in the country, is located adjacent to another historical place, Rumi Darwaza. It was constructed as a replica of London’s Big Ben. The clock, made out of gunmetal, has a gigantic pendulum. and its dial is designed as a 12-petalled flower.