Buckingham Palace, located in the City of Westminster, is the administrative headquarters for the British monarchy.
Did you know that the palace attracts more than 50,000 visitors from around the world each year? That’s not the only fascinating fact about this royal residence. Here, we identify the top five most incredible facts about this royal residence.
When was Buckingham Palace constructed?
The property was built in 1703 by architect William Winde, originally as a large townhouse for John Sheffield, the first Duke of Buckingham. It was named Buckingham House. In 1761, it was bought by King George III as a private residence for his wife, Queen Charlotte, and was renamed ‘The Queen’s House’. When Queen Victoria ascended to the throne in 1837, she made Buckingham Palace her official residence, and she was the first monarch to ever reside there.
Queen Victoria introduced the ‘Balcony Wave’ tradition
Queen Victoria was the first monarch to greet her subjects on the balcony of Buckingham Palace. She began this tradition in 1851 during the opening celebrations of the Great Exhibition, and then again on the wedding day of her daughter, Princess Victoria, with their family in 1858. Thus, a new Royal tradition was born. Some of the most famous balcony appearances include King George V on the eve of World War I, and Prince William and Kate Middleton’s post-wedding kiss.
Who is the only monarch to be born and die at Buckingham Palace?
The eldest son of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, Albert Edward, was born on 9th November 1841 at the palace. When Queen Victoria died on 22nd January 1901, Albert Edward became king, and chose to reign under the name of Edward VII. On 6th May 1910, Edward VII died at the palace. He is the only monarch who was born and died at Buckingham Palace.
The Palace was the target of many attacks during World War II
During World War II, Buckingham Palace managed to survive nine separate bombing raids. King George VI and his family were advised by the Government to leave London during the war, however, they chose to remain at the palace. Queen Elizabeth famously said: “The children will not leave unless I do. I shall not leave unless their father does, and the king will not leave the country in any circumstances, whatever.”
Buckingham Palace is the 14th largest palace in the world
As a result of multiple alterations over the years, Buckingham Palace now contains 828,000 square feet of floor space, and the grounds span over a total of 40 acres! There are also an astonishing 775 different rooms in the palace. These include 52 Royal and guest bedrooms, 19 Staterooms, 92 offices, 188 staff bedrooms, and 78 different bathrooms. The grounds also contain a swimming pool, cinema, post office, doctor’s surgery and other amenities.
In tribute to Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s life of service and devotion, a new series of royal gold coins have been announced. You can browse this remarkable sovereign series HERE.
