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LONDON (CNN) - London's iconic landmark, Big Ben, will fall silent for four years as "major conservation works" are carried out, a statement from the UK's parliament said Monday.
On Aug. 21 at noon, the famous chimes will be heard for the last time in four years before renovations begin on safeguarding The Elizabeth Tower, home of Big Ben.
Big Ben falling silent is a significant milestone in this crucial conservation project.
Steve Jaggs, Keeper of the Great Clock, said the essential maintenance will safeguard the clock on a long-term basis, as well as protect and preserve its home in the tower.
The clock will only chime for "important national events" such as New Year's Eve and Remembrance Sunday.
Big Ben has marked the hour with almost unbroken service for the past 157 years. The clock last fell silent for maintenance in 2007, and prior to that between 1983-85 as part of a previous large scale refurbishment.
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