This prominent landmark, known locally as Old Joe, was built to commemorate Joseph Chamberlain. It is a Grade II listed building and can be seen for miles around. The tower is based on the Torre del Mangia in Siena, Italy, and was designed by Aston Webb and Ingress Bell, two London-based architects. Construction was completed in 1908.
The tower is made of red brick and was built from the inside out without scaffolding. The pointing of the brickwork took place after construction in 1914, and it has been re-pointed twice since.
This was once the tallest building in Birmingham until the BT Tower was completed. It stands 110 metres high and has a base of solid concrete resting on bedrock. The tower bells weigh approximately 20 tonnes.
Students and visitors were at one time able to access the tower, which has a single electric-powered lift shaft running up the centre of the building. Unfortunately, access was restricted following a suicide.
The clock was built by Joyce of Whitchurch and the clock face measures 5.25 metres across. The clock hands are made from sheet copper.
At the base of the tower, carved in stone, are the words: This tower commemorates the founding of the university through the initiative and active encouragement of its first chancellor, the Right Honourable Joseph Chamberlain.
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