Devereux, the second Essex man: October 2001 until February 2002
Robert Devereux, the 2nd Earl of Essex, is one of England's most romantic heroes, cutting a dashing figure through Elizabethan history. To mark the 400th anniversary of this death, the Tower of London is putting on a fascinating exhibition about his life that will run from October 2001 until February 2002, with special costumed presentations taking place on 6, 7, 13 and 14 October. Find out how the Earl went from the Queen's favourite to an executed traitor, discover what part Shakespeare played, and see a full scale replica of the execution scaffold, the first to be seen in the tower since his death 1601.
Though never the Queen's lover as was later suggested (he was thirty years her junior), the Earl of Essex was the last in a long line of Queen Elizabeth's favourites. Soldier, courtier and aristocrat, it was said of him "his only friend was the Queen and his only enemy was himself".
The exhibition and costumed presentations are all included in the admission price.
New Constable at the Tower: 3rd October
The installation of the 158th constable will take place with much pomp and ceremony on Tower Green 3rd October 2001: The Lord Chamberlain, as the Monarch's representative, will hand the Tower's golden keys to the new constable as a symbol of custodianship. The Constable, who does not live at the Tower, will then hand the keys over to the Governor, who is responsible for the day to day running of the ancient fortress.
Visitors to the Tower on this day can see this historic ceremony.
Colonel Blood and the Crown Jewels Robbery: 20th - 28th October.
A Villain dressed in a Priest's clothing, a gang of ruthless and violent adventurers, concealed daggers and a cunning plan were all ingredients of a spectacular attempt to steal the Crown Jewels in 1671. Special tours will bring to life the characters involved and the murky intrigue of England under King Charles II. Why did the attempt nearly succeed? Who was 'Colonel' Thomas Blood? Why was he never punished for his crime?
Guy Fawkes at the Tower of London: 3rd - 4th November
Remember, remember the 5th of November . . . take part in the dramatic events that led to the discovery of the Gunpowder Plot and meet the characters whose faith led them to conspire against King and Country.
Christmas at the Medieval Palace: 27th - 31st December
Costumed interpreters dressed as Edward I, Eleanor of Castile and their courts assemble to celebrate one of the King's great feasts. Join in the colourful processions and the court ceremonials, choose the Boy Bishop and learn the rituals of dining while being entertained by minstrels, storytellers and others.
A Round Up of Forthcoming Events
September 2001 to February 2002 - Essex, the Dashing Traitor
20th - 28th October: Colonel Blood and the Great Crown Jewels Robbery
3rd - 4th November: Guy Fawkes at the Tower of London
November: Forty One Gun Salute - State Opening of Parliament (noon)
16th December: State Parade - Christmas Service
27th - 31st December - Christmas at the Medieval Palace
