The royal heart of London, wrapped in history and grandeur, stands Buckingham Palace—a building that is much more than just a residence. It has been the administrative headquarters of the British monarchy since the reign of Queen Victoria.
This iconic palace is recognized around the world not only as the backdrop to the Changing of the Guard ceremony but also as a symbol of the British monarchy and a stage for national celebrations and royal hospitality.
Let’s unwrap the layers of Buckingham Palace, revealing facts that make it an architectural treasure and a repository of history.
Buckingham Palace Facts
Fact 1: Buckingham Palace Has Been the Royal Residence Since 1837
Buckingham Palace has served as the official London residence of the UK’s sovereigns since 1837. It was in that year that Queen Victoria ascended to the throne and chose it as her residence, marking the beginning of its role as the administrative hub for the monarchy.
Before her, the house was owned by the Dukes of Buckingham and known as Buckingham House.
Queen Victoria’s decision to reside there transformed it from a private house into the bustling palace we recognize today.
Fact 2: The Palace Boasts an Impressive Number of Rooms
With 775 rooms, Buckingham Palace is a structure of monumental scale. There are 19 State rooms, 52 Royal and guest bedrooms, 188 staff bedrooms, 92 offices, and 78 bathrooms. Each room is designed with a specific purpose, often reflected by its ornate and individual decoration.
These areas are used for various royal functions, from state banquets to receptions, highlighting the palace’s role as a working building.
Fact 3: Buckingham Palace’s Garden is the Largest Private Garden in London
Enveloping Buckingham Palace is an impressive 39-acre garden, which is the largest private garden in the city. It includes a helicopter landing area, a lake, and a tennis court. This lush oasis in the heart of London often plays host to the Queen’s Garden Parties, welcoming around 30,000 guests annually.
It is noteworthy that the garden holds a remarkable variety of flora and fauna, a testament to its careful cultivation over the centuries.
Fact 4: The Palace’s Grand Ballroom Was the First Room to Have Electricity
In 1883, Buckingham Palace became one of the first buildings in the world to have electricity installed, with the Ballroom being the initial room to be lit by the new technology. This installation marked an era of modernization within the royal household.
An electrical engineer was appointed to manage the palace’s power systems, which were initially powered by 3 Dynamos in the “Room of the Dynamos”. Throughout history, the palace has continued to adopt new technologies as they develop.
Fact 5: Over 350 Clocks and Watches are Found Inside Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace is home to one of the largest collections of working clocks and watches in the UK. A team of horologists is tasked with their maintenance, ensuring every timepiece is timely. Each week they wind up the clocks, a process that requires notable diligence and care.
This collection of more than 350 timekeepers adds to the grandeur and functional elegance of the palace and is indicative of the attention to detail present throughout the royal residence.
Fact 6: The Buckingham Palace Is Guarded by the Famous Queen’s Guard
The Queen’s Guard, in their iconic red tunics and bearskin hats, are one of the most visible symbols of Buckingham Palace. They are responsible for guarding the Sovereign’s residence, a duty performed with much ceremony and precision.
The Changing of the Guard ceremony is a popular tourist attraction, drawing crowds who come to witness the time-honored tradition.
Fact 7: Buckingham Palace Has Its Own Post Office Among Other Essential Facilities
Buckingham Palace is akin to a small town, with its own post office, movie theater, police station, and even a cash machine. Alongside these, there is a staff cafeteria, a doctor’s office, and a chapel.
These facilities serve the needs of the Royal Family, as well as the staff who work within its walls. The presence of these amenities emphasizes the vastness and self-sufficiency of the royal residence.
Fact 8: The Palace Saw Significant Structural Changes During Queen Victoria’s Reign
Under Queen Victoria, Buckingham Palace underwent considerable expansion with significant structural changes. The palace’s famous East Front—that includes the balcony, where the royal family gathers to greet crowds on momentous occasions—was added during her reign.
Architect Edward Blore was commissioned to design this fourth wing thus enclosing what is now the quadrangle. These additions helped to shape Buckingham Palace into the building recognizable around the world today.
Fact 9: The Palace Contains an Exceptional Art Collection
Buckingham Palace is home to some of the most magnificent works of art, from paintings by Rembrandt, Rubens, and Van Dyck to exquisite pieces of English and French furniture. This collection is part of the Royal Collection, one of the most important art collections in the world.
The masterpieces adorn the walls of the State rooms and are used to host an array of distinguished guests and official events.
Fact 10: Buckingham Palace Stands on What Was Once Mulberry Gardens
The site of Buckingham Palace has a fruity history, as it was originally a mulberry garden planted by King James I in the early 17th century. His intention was to rear silkworms on the grounds, but unfortunately, he chose the wrong kind of mulberry for silk production.
Despite the agricultural setback, the area remained known for its garden until the land was developed in its current form. This botanical past adds another layer to the varied history of Buckingham Palace.
FAQs
What is the annual event where Buckingham Palace opens its doors to the public?
Each summer, usually from July to September, Buckingham Palace opens its doors to the public, allowing visitors to explore its opulent State rooms, view the art in the Royal Collection, and stroll through the gardens.
Can anyone attend a royal garden party at Buckingham Palace?
Invitations to the Queen’s Garden Parties at Buckingham Palace are a privilege and are typically extended to public service individuals, community leaders, and those who have made notable contributions in various fields. It is not an event open to the general public.
How can you tell if the Queen is at Buckingham Palace?
You can discern if the Queen is in residence at Buckingham Palace by looking at the flagpole atop the building: when the Royal Standard is flying, it indicates that the Queen is present. On all other occasions, the Union Flag flies instead.
Did Buckingham Palace sustain damage during World War II?
Yes, Buckingham Palace was not spared from the ravages of World War II; it was bombed no fewer than nine times during the Blitz.
The most significant damage occurred when a bomb destroyed the palace chapel in 1940; King George VI and Queen Elizabeth (later the Queen Mother) were in residence at the time but were unharmed.
How many people work at Buckingham Palace?
It is estimated that around 800 people work at Buckingham Palace. This includes a vast array of professions from administrative staff, to the household cavalry, cleaners, chefs, and many more, all contributing to the daily functioning of the palace.
Conclusion
Buckingham Palace is not just a backdrop for pageantry and royal ceremony; it is a living museum, a home, and an office. These ten facts only scratch the surface of its rich tapestry woven with history, culture, and art.
As an embodiment of British tradition and a testament to the evolving story of the monarchy, Buckingham Palace captures the imagination and stands as one of the most famous buildings worldwide.
It is a monument to be cherished, conserved, and, when possible, visited to experience firsthand the splendor it so humbly holds within its walls.