D.Two years ago, the pandemic forced the queen to choose where to spend the long periods of lockdown. And Elizabeth had gladly left Buckingham Palace, which she always described as very cold and impersonalto take refuge with Philip in the beloved Windsor Castle, certainly more intimate and welcoming and where she now feels surrounded by the memories of her husband, who passed away in April 2021. But the sovereign had not ruled out a future return to the London royal palace.
Queen Elizabeth has second thoughts
Now, a few weeks after her 96th birthday, the queen has changed her mind, and has sent her assistants to empty her old apartments altogether. The decision is final: he will never stay at Buckingham Palace again.
Nor will the events related to the Platinum Jubilee, the State visits or the Trooping The Color tempt it. Diplomatic meetings will be held virtually, investitures and events will all be held in Windsor. Her move to her dream castle becomes permanent.
From now on, Queen Elizabeth will only travel to Buckingham Palace virtually (Getty Images)
Queen Elizabeth can’t stand noises
According to British media, two factors may have contributed to the ruler’s decision. Her concern for her health, which makes moving from one royal residence to another more and more complicated. And the fact that Lhe renovation of the 775 rooms of Buckingham Palace, which began three years ago, has suffered significant delays and it will not be completed until 2027, causing some irritation to the monarch.
What will happen to Buckingham Palace?
There is now speculation about the future of the royal palace, traditionally the queen’s number one residence, but little loved by the English royals. Worried about the costs of maintaining it, Prince Charles even wanted to turn it into a museum open to the public all year round.
But now it seems that the heir to the throne has also turned around and wants to move there, once he becomes king. With him and Camilla as permanent residents, the majestic Buckingham Palace will become the symbol of the new monarchy, post Elizabeth.
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