All About Royal Families

Just north of Brussels, Plantentuin Meise unfolds across 92 hectares of breathtaking landscape, surrounding the elegant Bouchout Castle. The castle once served as the secluded residence of Princess Charlotte of Belgium , later Empress of Mexico, sister-in-law of Sisi and sister to King Leopold II . But Plantentuin Meise is not only a place of royal memory. It is also a living archive of botanical science. One of the garden’s remarkable achievements was the relocation of the Balat Greenhouse in the 1930s. Originally designed by royal architect Alphonse Balat , mentor to the great Victor Horta, the structure once stood near the Royal Palace in Brussels. Its careful reconstruction in Meise stands as a tribute to Belgium’s botanical heritage and architectural legacy. The Greenhouse Alphonse Balat Today, the garden is home to over 18,000 plant species, an extensive herbarium with more than 4 million specimens, and the spectacular Plant Palace, where 13 interconnected glasshouses allow visit...

Westminster Abbey is more than just a historic church—it is a timeless symbol of British tradition, royal pageantry, and national identity. For over a thousand years, this iconic Gothic masterpiece has witnessed coronations, weddings, funerals, and moments of profound historical importance. Whether you're a fan of royal history, architecture, or sacred heritage, Westminster Abbey has stories to tell that are both grand and deeply human. As on May 8th. 2025, Westminster Abbey was the place to be to mark the VE 80 celebrations with members of the Royal Family it's time to take a closer look at 10 fascinating facts that make Westminster Abbey one of the most treasured royal landmarks in the world: 1. Coronation since 1066 Every English and later British monarch—starting with William the Conqueror—has been crowned at Westminster Abbey, with only a few exceptions. The Coronation Chair, made in 1300, is still used today. 2. Royal wedding favorite In 2011, Prince William and Catherine...

Nestled along the banks of the Arno River in Florence, the Uffizi Gallery is one of the most renowned art museums in the world. While it is famous for housing masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci, the Uffizi also has a rich royal history that reflects the grandeur of the de' Medici family and their influence on the Renaissance era. Origins of the Uffizi: A de' Medici Masterpiece The Uffizi Gallery was originally conceived not as an art museum but as an administrative and judiciary building. Commissioned in 1560 by Cosimo I de’ Medici, the first Grand Duke of Tuscany, the structure was designed by Giorgio Vasari, the renowned architect and artist. The name "Uffizi," meaning "offices," reflects its original purpose as a space for Florentine magistrates and bureaucrats. Cosimo I de’ Medici, a powerful ruler and patron of the arts, played a pivotal role in transforming Florence into a Renaissance hub. His vision extended beyond governa...

The Ponte Vecchio, one of Florence’s most iconic landmarks, holds a fascinating royal history that is deeply intertwined with the powerful de' Medici family, who ruled Florence for centuries. This medieval bridge, spanning the Arno River, is not just a testament to architectural ingenuity but also to the grandeur and influence of Florence’s rulers. A Bridge with Ancient Origins The Ponte Vecchio, which means “Old Bridge,” was built in 1345 to replace a series of earlier wooden bridges that had been repeatedly destroyed by floods. Unlike its predecessors, this iteration was constructed in stone, ensuring greater durability. However, its significance goes beyond its longevity—its royal connections transformed it into a symbol of power and prestige. The de' Medici Family and the Vasari Corridor During the Renaissance, the de' Medici family solidified their control over Florence, and under the rule of  Cosimo I de’ Medic i, Grand Duke of Tuscany ,  the Ponte Vecchio took on an ...

Browsing through summer photos, in the winter,is always a lot of fun. It makes you dream away,about what has passed and what will come next year. This time my eye fell on the beautiful Palazzo Vecchio in Florence, not only for the building but also for its surroundings.  So, let's take a quick look and discover why the Palazzo Vecchio certainly is a royal destination in Florence, Italy! The Palazzo Vecchio, located in the heart of Piazza della Signoria,  is one of Florence’s most iconic landmarks. Originally constructed between 1299 and 1314, it served as the town hall and later as the residence of the ruling Medici family. With its formidable, fortress-like appearance, crenelated tower, and impressive historical significance, the building embodies both Florentine civic pride and Renaissance artistry. The structure was designed by Arnolfo di Cambio, who incorporated  elements of defense and grandeur, reflecting the political climate of the time.  The imposing 94-mete...