This place has been a rallying point for the British people at times of national rejoicing and crisis.
It is the official London residence of the British monarch.
The Royal Family traditionally congregates on the well-known balcony to greet crowds outside.
Every year some 50,000 invited guests are entertained at garden parties, receptions, audiences, and banquets.
The palace's state rooms have been open to the public during August and September since 1993.
The Forecourt of Buckingham Palace is used for Changing of the Guard, a major ceremony and tourist attraction (daily at 11.30 during the summer months; every other day during the winter).
