London is one of the most iconic and beloved cities in the world, known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and fascinating landmarks. Here are 20 interesting facts about London that you might not know:

1. London is the largest city in the European Union by population, with over 9 million people.

2. The name “London” comes from the Roman name for the city, Londinium.

3. The famous Tower Bridge in London is not actually a bridge, but a bascule and suspension structure that was built in 1894.

4. The London Eye, which was built in 1999, is the largest Ferris wheel in Europe.

5. The Houses of Parliament are also known as the Palace of Westminster and are home to the famous Big Ben clock tower.

6. The London Underground, or “Tube,” is the oldest underground railway in the world, with the first line opening in 1863.

7. The British Museum in London is home to over 8 million artifacts, including the famous Rosetta Stone.

8. The Queen’s official residence in London is Buckingham Palace, which has 775 rooms.

9. The famous Sherlock Holmes Museum on Baker Street is dedicated to the fictional detective created by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.

10. The Shard, which was completed in 2012, is the tallest building in the United Kingdom and stands at 309 meters.

11. The Tate Modern art museum in London is housed in a former power station and features works by famous artists such as Picasso and Warhol.

12. The iconic red phone booths that are found throughout London were designed by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott in 1924.

13. The London Marathon, which was first held in 1981, is one of the largest and most popular marathons in the world.

14. The British Library in London is the largest library in the world by number of items cataloged, with over 170 million items.

15. The famous Abbey Road Studios in London were used by the Beatles to record many of their most famous albums.

16. The Tower of London, which was built in 1066, has been used as a palace, fortress, and prison throughout its history.

17. London’s Chinatown is the largest in Europe and features a range of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events.

18. The iconic London black taxi cabs must pass a rigorous test known as “The Knowledge,” which tests drivers on their knowledge of London’s streets and landmarks.

19. The British Museum Reading Room, which opened in 1857, was used by famous authors such as Charles Dickens and Karl Marx.

20. London is home to over 300 languages, making it one of the most linguistically diverse cities in the world.

In conclusion, London is a city rich in history, culture, and fascinating facts. From its iconic landmarks and museums to its diverse neighborhoods and vibrant culture, there’s always something new and interesting to discover in this beloved city. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these 20 facts are just a small glimpse into the endless wonders of London.