While Queen Elizabeth famously considers the castle her home, Princes Phillip, Andrew, and Edward, as well as many of the royal family's staff members, also live there. During World War II, Buckingham Palace was bombed nine times by the Germans. The palace has withstood several attempts on its life since then.
The British monarchy is one of the oldest in the world. King Charles I was beheaded during the English Civil War for treason against Parliament. His son, King Charles II, who had been exiled to France, returned to the throne after the war ended. However, he too was forced into exile a few years later when his cousin, Louis XIV, king of France, demanded he return the French throne. When Charles II fled again, this time to England, he established the modern monarchy that exists today. He passed away without children and was followed by his brother, King George I.
Buckingham Palace has been the monarch's residence since it was built in 1714. The architect was Robert Adam and the project was overseen by George I. It has been expanded several times since then, most recently in 1837 by William IV and again in 1902 by King Edward VII. The current queen, Elizabeth II, has lived there since 1952 when her father, King George VI, died before she came of age.
The staff is selected by the queen to be able to provide her with personal attendants so that she does not have to travel back to Britain after every activity or function she attends.
The palace has been described as "the world's most famous hotel" because of the extensive range of facilities it offers to its residents. Many of the rooms are large and luxurious, while others are smaller but still offer more space than most people get at home. All of the staff members who live on site have their own apartments where they can relax after a long day working for the crown.
In addition to having only two years of mandatory military service, new recruits must also pass a rigorous medical exam before being allowed to work at the palace. Those who qualify will then have the opportunity to apply for one of the few remaining positions. The job requires a high level of physical fitness since attendants need to be able to protect the queen from attack if necessary. They also drive royal cars at high speeds over rough roads, which makes them ideal candidates for other positions within the palace guard.
Buckingham Palace has served as the monarchy's official London home since 1837. Queen Victoria, in fact, was the first queen to have Buckingham Palace as her primary residence. The Duke of York, Prince Andrew, and the Earl and Countess of Wessex (Prince Edward and his wife Sophie) and their daughter also live in Buckingham Palace.
The palace is open to the public daily except for certain state occasions such as royal weddings and funerals. In addition, some rooms are closed to the public because they contain family portraits or other important documents.
Buckingham Palace is one of the world's most famous residences. It has been the home of more than 20 kings and queens including George IV, William IV, Edward VII, George V, Edward VIII, and George VI. Today, it is again home to a monarch: Queen Elizabeth II. The current queen was born at Buckingham Palace in 1926. She is the granddaughter of King George V and Queen Mary, the daughter of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, and she has two children of her own.
In addition to its role as a residence for the monarch, Buckingham Palace has also played an important part in British history through wars and revolutions. The palace has withstood attacks by French and American soldiers, as well as riots from angry citizens. It is currently protected by the British government as a historic landmark and cannot be replaced if it is destroyed.
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