Palace of Westminster

The palace's origins trace back to the Middle Ages when the marshy area, known as Thorney Island, was chosen by Cnut the Great as the site for a royal residence. Under Edward the Confessor, a palace was built there, concurrently with Westminster Abbey. After the Norman Conquest, Westminster Hall was erected in 1097 under William II and was then the largest hall in Europe. The palace served as the main residence of English monarchs and became the center of government affairs. Following a fire in 1529, King Henry VIII moved out, and the palace was subsequently used exclusively by Parliament and the courts. A fire in 1834 destroyed most of the building; only Westminster Hall and the Jewel Tower survived. The reconstruction was carried out in the Neo-Gothic style by architects Charles Barry and Augustus Pugin, with work continuing until 1870. During World War II, the palace suffered damage from bombing raids, particularly the Commons Chamber, but was rebuilt by 1950.

The Palace of Westminster is located in London, within Greater London, England, United Kingdom. It stands at an elevation of approximately 20 meters above sea level.

Today, the Palace of Westminster houses the British Parliament, comprising the House of Commons and the House of Lords. Visitors can admire the Neo-Gothic architecture, including the Elizabeth Tower with Big Ben. The palace is an active government building.