Located on the north bank of the river Thames, the Tower of London is a 900-year-old castle and fortress in central London that is mostly known for being home to the Crown Jewels, and for its being the place for holding many famous and infamous prisoners. notable for housing the crown jewels and for holding many famous and infamous prisoners. Over its 900 years, it has served historically as royal palace, an arsenal, a political prison, and a place for conducting executions, most notably Anne Boleyn, and Edward V and his brother Richard Duke of York.