Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle was built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century as one of several fortifications ringing London at a distance of about 20 miles (equivalent to one day's march). For nearly a millennium, it has served as living quarters for the British royals. Queen Elizabeth II, for example, spends her weeks at Buckingham Palace but her weekends at Windsor.

A large fire in 1992 destroyed several of the important public rooms - most of them part of the state apartments lavishly decorated in the 19th century by the various King George's. As luck would have it, the crown found a way to raise funds to repair the damage: charging admission to tourists.

Unfortunately, we were not allowed to take pictures inside the castle. The photos taken outdoors are from my camera, but those taken inside were swiped from the internet.

 

Aerial view of the castle. (Shh....I didn't take this picture either.)

The exterior of the castle looms over the town of Windsor.

 The round tower, which flies a flag when the Queen is in residence, is surrounded by beautiful cascading gardens.

 Another view of the castle grounds. To the right is St. George's Chapel, ca. 1475.

 A detail on St. George's chapel.

 Knight's Hall

Note all the coats-of-armor on the ceiling; they are all numbered and catalogued.

 What the knight's hall looks like for formal dinners.

 Red Drawing Room (restored after fire)

 Green Drawing Room (restored after fire)

Queen Mary's Dollhouse

Apparently, Queen Mary, wife of King George V, was one of history's most avid collectors of miniatures. Her early 20th century dollhouse was designed to look thoroughly modern including a garage for the vehicles and a vacuum cleaner. Leora, you should see this when you come visit! Here are some pics:

Exterior

Library

Garage

Dining Room