The bells of Malta

Abstract

The Concise Oxford Dictionary defines bells thus: "a cup-shaped instrument emitting musical sound when struck", while the Collins Concise Dictionary defines a bell: "a hollow usually metal cupshaped instrument that emits a ringing sound when struck". Bells are usually made from bell metal, an alloy of copper and tin. Small bells used for interior occasions or ceremonies are made of silver, gold or even brass. But usually ordinary handbells are made of brass. It was in the seventh century that large bells were introduced in English Cathedral Churches, Abbeys and Monasteries. The largest bell in the world is found in Russia called "The King of Bells". One can see it in the Kremlin in Moscow. It weighs 198tonnes, is 6.27m high and 6.91m in diameter. This giant bell was cast in 1733 but it cracked in the furnace. It is said that the broken part itself weighs 11 tonnes. This broken part itself is preserved as a national treasure in Russia. [excerpt]