Travel and Olympics Month: Architecture in London

[Colin al'Caar]

Day 7: The London Eye

 

 

 

 

This Iconic landmark is one of the most recognizable structures in London. While not a building, I thought it would be a great way to wrap up this week. The London Eye is Europe's largest ferris wheel. When it was constructed, it was the largest in the world until surpassed by the Star of Nanchang in 2006. It is the most popular paid tourist attraction in all of the UK. Each of the passenger capsules can contain up to 25 people, and full rotation takes about 30 minutes. It was designed by a team of over 10 architects.

 

Some interesting facts:

 

1. All of the capsules are air conditioned

 

2. The Eye doesn't stop to let people on or off. The capsules are on ground level long enough to let people walk on while it's moving.

 

3. On new years day, fireworks are fired off from the wheel itself.

 

Today's trivia question: What was the predecessor of the London Eye?

 

Rode this a couple of times...great view of London....Predecessor...hmm....the Great Wheel, circa late 19th century some time?

[Masema]

And Colin is right again!

 

Still, THAT'S the most popular paid tourist attraction? How strange ... lol

 

I know Mother, it shocked me too when I was doing the research for it.

[Masema]

Thank you to everyone who participated in this event! You're all great!

[Elgee]

I thoroughly enjoyed it, Masema - thank you!

[Colin al'Caar]

Great event, Masema....thanks!