Visitors to Buckingham Palace in London this summer will get to stand behind the famous balcony on which the British royal family often appear.
For the first time the palace is opening the building’s East Wing which includes access to the Centre Room which opens to the balcony.
‘’This room was part of the edition of the East Wing, made by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. And it was Prince Albert who actually suggested the balcony,’’ said Nicola Turner Inman, curator of Decorative Arts at Royal Collection Trust.
‘’It was first used in 1851 for waving off the troops for the Crimean War. So it’s been in use for quite a long time,’’ she said.
As well as being able to look through the net curtain down The Mall there is also a newly restored 19th century glass chandelier shaped like a lotus flower to admire.
‘’For the public to be able to see the chandelier, not a glimpse of it from the mouth, but actually be in the room where it hangs is an exciting prospect.” said Turner Inman.
Ticket holders will also be able to go inside the Yellow Drawing Room which features 18th century items such as recently restored hand-painted Chinese wallpaper and a Kylin clock.
Other highlights include Chinese imperial silk wall hangings presented to Queen Victoria as well as art work by the likes of Thomas Gainsborough on display in the Principal Corridor.
As well as seeing the East Wing rooms, often used for receptions and meetings as well as balcony moments the 75 pound ($95 approx) tickets include access to the State Rooms.
Tickets to see the newly opened wing from July 11 to September 29 have already sold out. It’s expected to be accessible to the public again in 2025.
(REUTERS)