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Numerous fairytale-like and majestic palaces continue to serve as homes for royal families worldwide.
When we think of palaces, we often picture ancient castles abandoned for years. However, in the modern era, many countries still maintain monarchies, and reigning kings, queens, and their royal families live in these splendid palaces. Let's visit some of the current royal residences around the world:
Drottningholm Palace in Stockholm, Sweden
The royal residence Drottningholm Palace, with its 600 rooms, has been the permanent abode of the Swedish royal family since 1981. Inside, it houses 5 museums and the Drottningholm Palace Theatre, the only 18th-century theatre in the world still using its original machinery. The rooms to the south are reserved for the royal family, but the rest of the castle grounds are open year-round for tourists to explore.
Amalienborg Palace, Copenhagen, Denmark
Amalienborg Palace comprises 4 identical buildings constructed in the Rococo architectural style. The square surrounded by these castles is considered the heart of Denmark's capital and is a tourist icon of the city. Currently, one building is used by Queen Margrethe II, another serves as the residence for Crown Prince Frederick's family, and the remaining two function as museums open to visitors.
Prince's Palace in Monaco
Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene reside in the Prince's Palace, located in the center of the tiny nation of Monaco, along with their children. The castle, built as a fortress in 1162, is their royal abode.
Royal Palace in Madrid, Spain
The Royal Palace in Madrid is one of the largest palaces in Western Europe with 3,000 rooms. While it serves as the official residence of King Felipe and Queen Letizia, they mainly use it for work and hosting guests. Currently, the Spanish royal family primarily lives in the Zarzuela Palace.
Royal Palace in Oslo, Norway
The Royal Palace of Norway serves as the official residence and main office of the royal family since King Oscar I moved there in 1849. The palace boasts 173 rooms and partially opens its doors to the public during the summer months.
Royal Palace in Tokyo, Japan
The Japanese emperors have resided in the Imperial Palace in Tokyo since 1868. The palace grounds span 1.3 square miles. It opens to the public only twice a year to celebrate the New Year on January 2nd and the emperor's birthday.
Royal Palace in Brussels, Belgium
The current Royal Palace was built in 1900. King Philippe and Queen Mathilde of Belgium use the Royal Palace of Brussels for their official duties but reside full-time in the Royal Castle of Laeken.
Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, Cambodia
The Royal Palace, built in 1866 by Preah Bat Norodom, is currently owned by King Norodom Sihamoni. Only the Golden Throne Room is open to the public. The nearby Silver Pagoda, adjacent to the palace, also welcomes tourists.
Raghadan Palace in Amman, Jordan
Raghadan Palace is part of the Al-Maquar royal complex, constructed in 1926. Its windows are designed similarly to those of the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem. The Golden Hall, usually reserved for dignitaries, opens to visitors on the Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha holidays.
Royal Palace in Amsterdam, Netherlands
The Royal Palace in Amsterdam dates back to the Dutch Golden Age in the 17th century. Designed by Jan van Campen, it initially served as Amsterdam's city hall. Today, it is where King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima host guests and hold receptions. It also serves as the royal wedding hall, where the king and queen celebrated their marriage in 2002.
Royal Palace in Bangkok, Thailand
Constructed in 1782, the Grand Palace in Bangkok, Thailand, served as the official residence of the royal family until 1925. A key attraction of the palace is the Emerald Buddha Temple, housing a 14th-century statue. The two golden spires in the Central Court also open to the public for exploration.
Source: Insider
