Palace of Westminster

The Palace of Westminster, also known as the House of the Parliament, is an iconic building located on the banks of the River Thames in London, England. It serves as the meeting place for the two houses of the UK Parliament: the House of Commons and the House of Lords.

Palace of Westminster

It was originally built in the medieval period, with its earliest structure, Westminster Hall, dating back to 1097. However, the current palace complex was largely constructed between the 19th and 20th centuries. After a fire in 1834, which destroyed a significant portion of the medieval buildings, the palace was rebuilt. 

The architect responsible for the design and construction of the new Palace of Westminster was Charles Barry, a prominent British architect. He worked closely with Augustus Pugin, a skilled designer who contributed greatly to elaborate Gothic Revival style of the building.

Charles Barry (1795-1860)

Augustus Pugin (1812-1852)

The financing for the construction of the new palace was provided by the British government. The cost of the project was considerable, with estimates suggesting it exceeded £2 million at the time. The Palace of Westminster holds immense importance in the political and historical context of the UK. It represents the heart of the British democracy, housing the institutions that shape the country's laws and policies. 

Architecturally, the palace is considered a masterpiece of the Gothic Revival style. Both Charles and Pugin combined their talents to create a grand and intricate design, characterized by pointed arches, decorative tracery, and soaring spires. As a result, the Palace of Westminster was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987. 

Overall, the Palace of Westminster stands as an enduring symbol of British democracy and architectural excellence, attracting visitors from around the world who come to admire its beauty and learn about its rich history.