Buckingham Palace

Fondly known by the locals as "Buck House," Buckingham Palace has been the premier London residence of Britain's Royal family since 1837 although its Royal connections go back much further.

Originally a town house situated close to St James' Palace, it was bought by George III in 1761 as a private residence for his wife, Queen Charlotte and quickly became known as the Queen's House.

Extensive remodeling work was carried out to the tune of £73,000 -- an unthinkable amount of money almost 250 years ago. The money came directly from the public purse.

Almost sixty years later, George IV wanted the house reconstructed yet again, this time it was to be transformed into a palace. Another £450,000 of public money was spent but as the work took longer than expected, King George IV never got to live there.

The first sovereign to use Buckingham Palace as her London residence was Queen Victoria in 1837. Shortly after making the palace her home, Victoria found that the building lacked adequate sleeping facilities for guests and the lack of nursery space meant raising children would be difficult. In order to solve these problems, a new wing was built. In order to spare the taxpayers from more building expense, George IV's Royal Pavilion at Brighton was sold and the money raised used to fund the improvements.

Today the palace has probably one of the most recognizable facades in the world. It's also the administrative headquarters of the Monarchy and venue for Royal ceremonies and State visits.

Part of Queen Victoria's new wing held the "ballroom." At the time, this was the largest room in London and was first used to celebrate the end of the Crimean War. Today it's used for State banquets and the annual Diplomatic Reception. It is also here that Investitures are held (an occasion where the Queen or The Prince of Wales meets recipients of British honors and gives them their awards, including knighting those who are awarded a knighthood).

The Throne Room is rarely used except to receive loyal addresses on very special occasions and as the setting for formal wedding photographs.

Garden parties are held annually in the formal gardens and have been part of Palace tradition since their introduction by Queen Victoria in 1868.