Last weekend, Britons celebrated in honor of the platinum Jubilee of 96-year-old Queen Elizabeth ll. The monarch has reigned for 70 years, making her the world's oldest and longest-serving head of state. Especially for this occasion, MASTERS selects five royal attractions in the United Kingdom.Text: Fleur de Jong
Buckingham Palace is recognized around the world as the home of The Queen and is the focus of national and royal celebrations. Explore the magnificent State Rooms or stroll through the gardens; each summer from July 22 through October 2, the doors are open to visitors on selected dates.
This seventeenth-century palace was built in the town of Kensington for the Earl of Nottingham. It was purchased by William lll in 1689 because the king wanted a residence near London without the foul air of the city because he was asthmatic. Kensington Palace has been the home of many members of the royal family, including Queen Victoria, Diana, Princess of Wales and now the Duke and Ducheness of Cambridge (William and Kate). Part of Kensington Palace is open to the public, admire the various station rooms, the exceptional collection of royal costumes and the art collection.
Windsor Castle is the largest continuously inhabited castle in the world and has been for 950 years. Most monarchs throughout history used it as a second residence, preferring Buckingham Palace. But some, including King George IV, also used it as their primary residence. Today, the Royal Family can still be found regularly at Windsor Castle; for example, Charles and Camilla's wedding took place here. Windsor Castle houses a unique collection of drawings by Leonardo da Vinci and Holbein, among others.
Norman King William the Conqueror began building the Tower of London after he was crowned English king in 1066. Initially built as a palace, over the centuries it has served as a fortress, state prison, museum and arsenal, among other things. Today, The Tower houses a unique collection of gems and jewels that are still used in royal ceremonies today....
Westminster Abbey is a special place, which has played an important role in the lives of kings, queens, statesmen, soldiers, poets, priests, heroes and villains since 960. Since 1066, many of Britain's coronations have taken place here; moreover, it is the final resting place of over 3,000 famous Britons. There have also been 16 royal weddings, including that of Queen Elizabeth and most recently the marriage of William and Kate.
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