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The home of kings
Madrid's Royal Palace Madrid's Royal Palace was built in the 18th century by order of Philip V on the site of the old Alcázar fortress, a former Moorish castle. Sachetti began the works in 1738, and the building was completed in 1764. It has a square floor plan with a large central courtyard. Sabatini designed the southeast wing and the Great Staircase, or Staircase of Honor. The Puerta del Príncipe gateway on the east side gives access to the central courtyard. The Sabatini and Campo del Moro …
Diocletian's Palace
Croatia's living museum The world-famous Diocletian's Palace appeared on the Adriatic coast more than 1700 years ago when the area's beauty compelled the famous Roman emperor, Diocletian, to build his residence. Today, Diocletian's Palace is the center of the modern city of Split , which grew around the palace. It attracts many visitors who seek a relaxing, enjoyable time and is a must-visit site in Central Dalmatia for all who are interested in history. Diocletian’s Palace is one of the …
Regal Netherlands
Discover the royal side of the Netherlands If royal experiences are on your list while traveling, visit the Netherlands and get up close to the House of Orange-Naasau in cities such as Delft and The Hague. Delft Start your exploration of royal Delft at Museum Prinsenhof , the place that witnessed one of the most important events in Dutch history. In 1584, this is where William of Orange was shot in the stairwell by Balthasar Gerards after the king of Spain put a price on the royal head. Today, …
Sintra: a royal retreat
Journey through the history of Portugal Near Lisbon, the beautiful town of Sintra , the “Moon Hill” is a place full of magic and mystery, where nature and man have combined in a symbiosis so perfect that UNESCO classified it as a World Heritage site . The listing necessitated the creation of a special category for Sintra — that of a "cultural landscape" — in consideration of its natural riches and the historic buildings in the town and mountains. Sintra National Palace , also known as the Town …
Royal Ireland
Explore Ireland’s regal roots From ancient kings to enduring strongholds, Ireland’s royal heritage may surprise you. The High Kings of Ireland date back to the 5 th century AD, the most famous of all being Brian Boru. He was known as a fearsome warrior and his descendants, the O’Briens, were powerful figures in Ireland for many centuries. The Hill of Tara in County Meath is home to the Lia Fáil (Stone of Destiny), and when the rightful king placed his foot on the stone, it is said to have …
Seto Kingdom Day
A uniquely Estonian royal celebration In the far southeastern corner of Estonia, there is a small kingdom known as Setomaa, the land of the Setos. This ethnic and linguistic minority has been home in the area for centuries, but their royal tradition is much more recent. The origins of Seto Kingdom Day The Seto Kingdom was created in 1994, following the collapse of the Soviet Union and Estonia’s re-independence in 1991. The new border between Estonia and Russia divided Setomaa in two. Many Setos …
A journey back in time
Germany’s endless array of castles and palaces From princesses and knights, myths and legends, fairy tales, dramas, and love stories, to knights' banquets and the Nibelungenlied, there are no limits to the imagination in this land of castles and palaces. Among Germany’s estimated 25,000 ancient fortresses are some of the most beautiful and famous in the world. Immerse yourself in the history these walls bring to life! The Pride of Hannover Designed in the Baroque style by the House of Orange, …
An experience to remember!
Peace and harmony in Serbia’s Royal Compound My first visit to the Royal Compound in Belgrade was for an award ceremony. The same approach to the White Palace through the lush trees of the palace park evokes a special fairy-tale atmosphere. What follows is a palace with an enchanting facade, staircase, and all the architectural elements that impress me when I approach the magnificent buildings erected for royal families. Unlike the Royal Palace, built on the highest part of the hill and visible …
Explore royal Czechia
Delve into a history full of royal splendor Prague – the seat of kings and emperors The history of the Czech lands started more than a thousand years ago , and for most of that time, Prague was not the seat of presidents but monarchs. When you say “Prague”, everyone recalls the iconic skyline of Prague Castle , the seat of Czech princes and kings, and St. Vitus Cathedral , where kings were crowned and buried. During the cathedral tour, you can still visit the crypt with the remains of Bohemian …
A royal story of Slovakia
Visit a castle superpower in the heart of Europe Did you know that Slovakia has the highest number of castles per capita in the world? Indulge in the charm of more than 180 castles and 425 châteaux scattered throughout the country in the heart of Europe, once ruled by mighty monarchs, and explore the captivating history of this old crossroad of cultures. Watch the royal past come to life in Bratislava Start your royal trip in the capital , which was also the coronation city of the Hungarian …