![]() “I live downtown and it has come to my attention that the bells have been silent for a month or so,” said Willis. People take notice when the bells stop ringing, including Garnet Willis, who sent us a note saying he hasn’t heard them in a while. When they peel on a fog-shrouded day, it is not hard to envision Sir Winston Churchill emerging from the mist, or maybe Jack the Ripper. The bells mark the hour and half-hour with a gong so deep and resonant you can feel it in your bones, and ring in the quarter-hour with a chime less ominous in tone. One of Toronto’s most distinctive sounds is the chiming of the bells from the massive clock tower at Old City Hall, a replica of London’s Big Ben built in 1900 and one of the world’s largest time pieces. There is no direct access due to the location being cordoned off, but the remains are still clearly visible.Ask not for whom the bell tolls at Old City Hall. Outside the clock tower, you can also see the interesting remains of two Moorish houses that date back to the 12th-13th centuries. It makes for a great picture and a convenient meeting place ("Meet me under the Tower with the Bell.", locals would say). The tower and bell can be seen from almost any point in the Old Town. ![]() Nearby the old hospital complex is a cordoned off area enclosing the remains of two 12th century Islamic houses. The view of the Atlantic Ocean seen from the towers is uncluttered and amazing. At night the framework is outlined with lights an impressive sight. The bell, which strikes every hour, is within a wrought-iron framework. It is square shaped with a clock and arched portals on each side. The tower, once part of a fortified hospital complex, was built in the 18th century. It is considered to be the logo of Albufeira by the people of the town. ![]() The Clock Tower of Albufeira, "Torre do Relogio" in Portuguese, is located on Bernadino de Sousa Street. ![]()
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