Buckingham Palace
Sightseeing attraction | London | England | United Kingdom
Buckingham Palace is undoubtedly one of the most famous landmarks in London and serves as the official residence of the British monarchy in the capital. This imposing building, located in the heart of the city, is not only a symbol of the royal family but also a central location for state ceremonies and national celebrations. The palace was originally built in 1703 as Buckingham House for the Duke of Buckingham, before being acquired by King George III in 1761 to serve as a private retreat for his family. Since 1837, when Queen Victoria ascended to the throne and made the palace her primary residence, it has been the administrative center of the monarchy.
Architecturally, Buckingham Palace impresses with its neoclassical facade, extensively redesigned between 1825 and 1837 by John Nash on behalf of George IV. The characteristic white Portland stone walls and symmetrical design with the central balcony, from which the royals often greet the crowds, define the image of the palace. In 1850, the East facade was added under Queen Victoria – the side that is most famous today – designed by Edward Blore to accommodate the growing need for spaces for official events. The palace comprises a total of 775 rooms, including 19 state rooms, 52 royal and guest bedrooms, 188 staff rooms, 92 offices, and 78 bathrooms, highlighting its immense size and versatility.
One of the most famous events that has made Buckingham Palace world-renowned is the Changing of the Guard ceremony, a tradition of the British monarchy for centuries. This solemn handover of the guard by the King's Guard, often accompanied by a military band, regularly attracts crowds of visitors who marvel at the precise movements of the soldiers in their red uniforms and bearskin hats. The ceremony takes place in front of the palace and is a vivid testimony to the military precision and royal history of the country.
The state rooms of the palace, open to the public in summer, offer a glimpse into the royal lifestyle. The Throne Room, with its red and gold accents, serves as a backdrop for official portraits and ceremonies such as the presentation of orders. The Ballroom, the largest room in the palace, completed under Victoria in 1856, is used for state banquets, accommodating up to 170 guests. The Picture Gallery houses masterpieces by artists such as Rembrandt, Rubens, and Canaletto, part of the Royal Collection – one of the world's most significant art collections. These rooms are adorned with opulent chandeliers, gilded furniture, and historical artifacts reflecting the wealth and power of the monarchy.
The gardens of Buckingham Palace are another highlight, spanning 16 hectares. Originally designed by Capability Brown in the 18th century and later transformed by William Townsend Aiton under George IV, the garden features a lake, a variety of trees – including some planted by Victoria and Albert – as well as a rose garden and a tennis court created at the request of George VI. Today, it serves as a venue for the famous Garden Parties, where the royals host thousands of guests, from charity representatives to deserving citizens.
Historically, the palace has been the site of many significant events. During World War II, it was hit several times by German bombs, with the chapel heavily damaged in 1940. However, King George VI and Queen Elizabeth remained in the palace, symbolizing their solidarity with the population. After the war, on May 8, 1945, thousands gathered outside the palace to celebrate VE Day, as Winston Churchill appeared on the balcony alongside the royal family. More recently, such as at the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton in 2011 or Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee in 2022, the palace has been a central location for national joy.
Buckingham Palace is more than just a building – it is a living symbol of the British monarchy and its continuity. Its history reflects the nation's transformation from a private residence to a place that invites the public to peek behind the scenes. For visitors, it offers a blend of architectural splendor, royal heritage, and vibrant tradition that makes it an essential part of any trip to London. Whether watching the Changing of the Guard, admiring the state rooms, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, the palace remains a monument that impressively unites the past and present of Great Britain.
