The prestigious magazine Architectural Digest has published a ranking of the world's most beautiful palaces. Let us take a look at the buildings that topped this list
Versailles
The Palace of Versailles, located 20 km from Paris, was built by order of French King Louis XIV in 1661. Its construction took almost 50 years. The palace's architecture blends Baroque and Classical elements, while its interiors astonish with luxury and sophistication. Today, Versailles is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest palace complex in the world by area. It has over 700 rooms and boasts one of Europe’s largest parks, spanning more than 800 hectares.
Summer Palace (Yiheyuan)
The Summer Palace, Yiheyuan, was the summer retreat of Chinese emperors, built in 1750 but almost completely destroyed 110 years later. In the late 19th century, Empress Dowager Cixi restored the palace, and it has remained in that form to this day. Its architecture blends traditional Chinese elements with Western influences, emphasizing natural landscapes. The Summer Palace is the largest imperial garden in China and is also a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Grand Palace in Bangkok
The Grand Palace in Bangkok was constructed in 1782 by order of King Rama I and became the official residence of Thai monarchs. Its construction took nearly 15 years, and it has since served as Thailand's center of power, culture, and religion. The Grand Palace's architecture combines traditional Thai and Khmer elements. The palace is renowned for the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and its many intricate architectural details, including golden roofs. Today, it is one of Thailand's most visited historical landmarks.
Neuschwanstein
Construction of this castle in the Bavarian Alps began in 1869 by order of King Ludwig II and took over 17 years to complete. Neuschwanstein's architecture combines Romanesque and Gothic styles. The palace is famous for its grand towers and picturesque setting against the mountains. It is believed to have inspired the iconic Disney castle featured in the studio’s logo.
Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace was built in London in 1703 as the private residence of the Duke of Buckingham. However, under Queen Victoria, it became the official residence of British monarchs. Its architecture features Neoclassical elements, and the iconic facade is adorned with columns and tall windows. Buckingham Palace consists of 775 rooms, including 19 state rooms, 52 bedrooms, and 78 bathrooms, making it the largest royal palace in the world.
Montaza Palace
Montaza Palace, located in Alexandria, was built in the late 19th century for Egyptian Khedive Abbas II. Its architecture blends Italian Renaissance and traditional Arab styles. Montaza is known for its spacious terraces, elegant pavilions, luxurious interiors, and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. Today, it is a popular attraction visited by hundreds of thousands of tourists each year.
Pena Palace
Pena Palace in Sintra, Portugal, dates back to the 19th century. It was built on the site of a former monastery by order of King Ferdinand II. The palace’s architecture mixes Gothic, Renaissance, and Manueline styles. Its vibrant façades, unusual towers, and eclectic shapes make it a unique example of Romantic architecture. In 1995, the palace was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site as part of Sintra’s cultural landscape.