No visit to London is complete without a visit to the famous regal residence that is Buckingham Palace. The palace which is owned by Her Majesty the Queen still serves as a royal residence for the Queen and family today, and a lot of Royal work is still carried out today.
The history of the building dates back to 1761 when George III bought it for his wife Queen Charlotte to be used as a family home. From this time it became known as the Queens house and work began on remodeling it a year later in 1761. The house was later reconstructed by George IV in 1820 but it wasn't until 1826 that the King got the architect John Nash to transform it into a Palace.
Some of the 19 State rooms are used regularly by the Queen and other members of the Royal family still today. The State rooms are virtually the same today as they were when Nash redecorated them. They are all furnished with very lavish fine furniture from around the world. The furniture is known as the Royal collection and people come from all walks of life to see this grand history room. You can see many famous art paintings painted by some of the greats including Rembrandt and Rubens. But the palace is not a museum or an art gallery, but very much the centerpiece of Britain's constitutional monarchy.
Many lucky people get an invite to the Palace as the Queen often hosts banquets, lunches, dinners, receptions and Royal Garden Parties. But you don't have to be rich, famous or personally invited as the doors are open to the public during 31st July - 7th October each year.
This year (2012) there is a special exhibition of the Queens personal diamond collection. They each have been worn by various Royals over the past 200 years. Visitors' will learn all about the history of the stones and who wore them and why.
The garden is one of the highlights of a visit around Buckingham Palace. It is said to be a very unique and enchanting garden which a diverse range of plants and flowers. Gardeners will find the garden a right treasure trove and enjoy the walk and views of the famous lake.
Finally a visit to Buckingham Palace would not be the same without watching the Changing of the Guard. It is actually one of the oldest and most recognizable ceremonies connected with Palace. The Changing of the guard should take place every day at around 11:30 am and should not be missed. You don't even need a ticket to see this ceremony as you can just watch from outside the gates.
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