28th May 2023: Buckingham Palace and Victoria Memorial in London

Buckingham Palace is the official royal residence located in the heart of London, and it has served as the monarch’s principal home since Queen Victoria’s accession in 1837. Originally built in the early 18th century as “Buckingham House,” it underwent extensive renovations during the reign of George IV, resulting in the magnificent structure we see today. The palace contains 775 rooms and hosts state banquets, official ceremonies, and royal events, making it one of London’s most iconic landmarks.

Directly in front of the palace stands the Victoria Memorial, a striking white marble monument completed in 1911 to honor Queen Victoria’s reign. At its summit gleams a gilded statue of the Winged Victory, while below are sculptures symbolizing Charity, Truth, and Courage. Surrounding fountains and ornate figures create a majestic setting that complements the grandeur of the palace.

This forecourt serves as the stage for the world-famous Changing of the Guard and other royal ceremonies, attracting visitors from across the globe. Roads radiating from the memorial lead to The Mall, where colorful processions and state parades take place during national celebrations. Together, Buckingham Palace and the Victoria Memorial stand as enduring symbols of the British monarchy’s history and prestige, and remain essential highlights for anyone visiting London.

On that day, the Ford RideLondon cycling event was taking place, and the areas around Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and Hyde Park were bustling with crowds of spectators. I felt truly fortunate to have encountered such an exciting event.