Question 1: Today we are at the Palace of Westminster. Where is it?
- London
- Plymouth
- Leicester
Answer: London
Fact: The Palace of Westminster serves as both the center of British politics and a remarkable example of Gothic Revival architecture. Reconstructed after a devastating fire in 1834, it features intricate woodwork, stained glass, and gold-leaf embellishments that reflect the craftsmanship of the 19th century. The House of Commons is known for its distinctive green benches, while the House of Lords stands out with its red seating and an ornate gilded throne. A highlight of the palace is Westminster Hall—dating back to 1097, it is the oldest surviving section and has been the site of historic royal trials and lying-in-state ceremonies.
Question 2: What architectural style defines the Elizabeth Tower?
- Gothic Revival
- Baroque
- Neoclassical
Answer: Gothic Revival
Fact: Erected in 1859, the Elizabeth Tower—commonly misnamed Big Ben—houses the Great Bell, which chimes on the hour, every hour. Standing 316 feet tall, this Gothic Revival landmark is part of the Palace of Westminster. It was designed by Charles Barry, with its elaborate detailing crafted by Augustus Pugin. In addition to the hourly chimes, the tower’s quarter bells ring every 15 minutes, playing the Westminster Quarters melody that echoes throughout London.
Question 3: In ‘Mary Poppins Returns,’ why does Jack climb the Elizabeth Tower?
- To turn back time
- To fix it
- To search for money
Answer: To turn back time
Fact: In the 2018 film Mary Poppins Returns, Jack ascends the Elizabeth Tower alongside fellow lamplighters in a race against time to help the Banks family save their home. Their goal is to turn back the clock, buying Michael Banks the precious moments needed to submit the vital bank shares before the deadline. This exciting sequence, which combines live-action with CGI, showcases the splendor of London and pays homage to the iconic rooftop scene featuring chimney sweeps in the original 1964 Mary Poppins movie.