These awe-inspiring structures, once serving as grand residences for monarchs and rulers, have now evolved into renowned landmarks drawing countless visitors.
Here, we present a compilation of some of the most exquisite palaces across the globe, enchanting in both their historical significance and architectural splendor.
10. Pena National Palace
The Pena National Palace in Portugal, constructed in 1842 under the reign of King Ferdinand II, holds the distinction of being the oldest European castle exemplifying the Romanticism style.
Its construction took place on the site of a monastery that suffered extensive destruction during the devastating Great Lisbon Earthquake of 1755.
Remarkably, the palace has been lovingly restored to its original vibrant red and yellow colors, attracting countless visitors to this day and securing its position as one of Portugal’s most popular landmarks.
9. Chateau de Chambord
Chateau de Chambord, the second most frequented castle in France (after Versailles), stands as a remarkable marvel of the French Renaissance era. It boasts an impressive tally of 440 rooms, 365 fireplaces, and 84 splendid staircases.
King François I initiated the construction of this grand chateau in 1519 with the intention of utilizing it as his hunting retreat in the lush surrounding forests.
However, due to its chilling vastness, the castle failed to gain popularity as a favored dwelling, and even François I himself spent less than 40 days within its walls.
8. Forbidden City
The Forbidden City, situated in the heart of Beijing, is an immense palace complex that spans across 72 hectares. It was constructed between 1406 and 1420 and encompasses a staggering 980 buildings with an impressive 8,707 rooms.
The entire complex is encircled by a moat that reaches a depth of six meters and is enclosed by a ten-meter-tall wall. To traverse from the Tiananmen Gate to the Gate of Divine Might, one must cover a distance of 960 meters.
For almost five centuries, a total of twenty-four emperors reigned over China from within the confines of the Forbidden City until the abdication of Puyi, who held the esteemed title of the last Emperor of China.
7. Summer Palace
The Summer Palace, situated at a distance of 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) from downtown Beijing, exquisitely showcases the majestic Longevity Hill and the picturesque Kunming Lake.
Originally designed as an escape from the bustling ‘Forbidden City’, the Summer Palace served as a delightful summer abode for China’s imperial rulers.
Over time, the gardens underwent a significant expansion in 1750, meticulously replicating the architectural influences from various palaces and gardens across China.
As a tribute to the renowned West Lake in HangZhou, the Kunming Lake was also expanded, showcasing its incredible resemblance.
6. Alhambra
The Alhambra, a magnificent structure in southern Spain, serves as a fusion of a fortress, palace, and garden. It proudly sits atop a plateau, providing breathtaking views over the city of Granada.
Built by the Nasrid sultans in the mid-14th century, this palace stands as a brilliant display of the exceptional craftsmanship of Muslim artisans during that era.
Today, the Alhambra has become a prominent tourist destination in Spain, attracting numerous visitors who specifically travel to Granada to behold its grandeur.
5. Potala Palace
The Potala Palace, located on Marpo Ri hill, stands 130 meters above the Lhasa valley and is the most awe-inspiring architectural marvel in Tibet.
Despite a palace having been constructed on this site in the 7th century, the construction of the current palace began in 1645 during the fifth Dalai Lama’s rule, and by 1648, the White Palace, known as Potrang Karpo, was finished.
The Red Palace, also called Potrang Marpo, was later added between 1690 and 1694. Serving as the residence of the Dalai Lama, the Potala Palace remained a significant place until the 14th Dalai Lama sought refuge in India following the Chinese invasion of 1959.
4. Topkapi Palace
In 1453, after Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror successfully captured Constantinople, he immediately initiated the development of a brand new dwelling. This magnificent residence eventually evolved into the renowned Topkapi Palace.
Remaining as the imperial sanctuary for the Ottoman sultans for an impressive span of four centuries, from 1465 to 1853, the palace complex underwent continuous enhancements and alterations throughout the years.
Presently, the complex boasts four main courtyards that showcase escalating magnificence, alongside numerous smaller structures that contribute to its splendor.
3. Mysore Palace
Mysore, located in India, is often hailed as the City of Palaces due to its numerous historical architectural marvels. Amongst these landmarks, Mysore Palace stands as the most renowned and iconic.
Its tale began in 1897, replacing the former structure that succumbed to flames during a wedding ceremony. The meticulous construction of the new palace concluded in 1912.
Every year, during the vibrant Dasara festival held between September and October, the palace becomes a breathtaking spectacle. Over 10,000 dazzling bulbs illuminate its grandeur, transforming it into a sight of sheer magnificence.
2. Schonbrunn Palace
The Schönbrunn Palace, boasting 1,441 elegant rooms, rivals the splendor of Versailles and stands proudly as a must-visit destination for tourists in Vienna.
Emperor Leopold I commissioned the construction of this magnificent palace between 1696 and 1712, later transformed into the favored summer residence by Maria Theresa.
Stepping into the Palace Park, visitors are greeted with an array of delightful attractions, including the enchanting Privy Garden, home to a treasure trove of natural beauty.
Notably, the world’s oldest zoo awaits exploration within these park grounds, accompanied by the intriguing maze and labyrinth, where every corner teases the senses.
Climbing the height of a lofty 60 meters, a captivating sight awaits those ascending the hill to the Gloriette, a gracefully crafted marble summerhouse offering breathtaking views that dominate the landscape.
1. Palace of Versailles
Originally constructed in 1624 by Louis XIII as a hunting lodge, Versailles underwent a transformation under the reign of his successor, Louis XIV, blossoming into an impressive palace that would go on to become one of the grandest in the world.
Beginning in 1682, Louis XIV utilized this opulent establishment as a tool to exert absolute control over France.
For centuries, the Palace of Versailles stood as the official abode for the Kings of France, but in October 1789, amidst the turbulent times of the French Revolution, the royal family was compelled to abandon their royal residence and relocate back to the bustling streets of Paris.
