Houses of parliament what is it

After this enduring damage, it was replaced with a more robust structure. Despite being largely rebuilt, there are a few parts of the Houses of Parliament which retain their medieval credentials. The new design of the Houses of Parliament was created by architect Charles Barry, who built it in a Gothic Revival style. This was based largely on the English Gothic style of prior centuries, and allowed Barry to retain and incorporate those areas which had survived the fire. The new palace was much larger than its original building, helping to create an imposing sight for guests at the Montcalm Chiswell Street.

The Houses of Parliament are the official meeting place for parliament, but as the UK is a constitutional monarchy, they are technically owned by the reigning monarch. During ceremonial events, the venue also retains its original purpose as a royal residence, and the Queen plays a key role in events such as the State Opening of Parliament — traditions which stretch back many centuries.

While the Palace of Westminster is now home to modern government, it is also known for respecting traditions which stretch back many centuries. In the earliest days of parliament, figures attending would have brought their swords — as such, the venue still provides a place to hang these swords.

One of the largest rooms in the Houses of Parliament, the Royal Gallery is used for a number of key diplomatic events.

This could include everything from dinners to ceremonies and special receptions. One of the most important parts of the Houses of Parliament is its large clock, known as Big Ben. The Commons Chamber however is a little less lavish, with its furnishings sources from various Commonwealth countries.

However, the Lord Speaker in the House of Lords is seated on a sack of wool — intended to represent the British wool trade. The Houses of Parliament have many staircases — more than of them, in fact, as well as around three miles of corridors to explore. A trip here often requires people to travel up and down these narrow staircases to get to essential parts of the building, including the House of Commons viewing gallery.

One of the most interesting features of the Palace of Westminster, the seat of the English monarchy from the 11th to the early 16th centuries, is Westminster Hall. Originally built in , it is the oldest surviving part of the complex; the awesome hammer-beam roof was added between and and is the largest medieval timber roof in northern Europe.

The only other part of the original palace to survive the devastating fire is the Jewel Tower , built in and used to store the monarch's valuables. Westminster Hall was used for coronation banquets in medieval times and served as a courthouse until the 19th century.

In the 20th century, monarchs and Prime Minister Winston Churchill lay in state here after their deaths. Parliament is split into two houses. During the Blitz , the Palace was hit no less than 14 times. And a car bomb exploded in the car park in , killing Conservative politician Airey Neave. Tighter security since then has prevented further tragedies. But people with axes to grind still see Westminster as the perfect backdrop to their protests: from flour-bombing Tony Blair to staging rooftop sit-ins dressed as super heroes.

As the seat of governance and power, the Palace of Westminster has been making the news since the 11th century — and it doesn't show any signs of stopping. The only Members of Parliament allowed to eat or drink in the Chamber is the Chancellor of the Exchequer, who can have an alcoholic drink while delivering the budget. Houses of Parliament. History of London. Did you know? Most Recent. Lesser known facts about The Battle of the Somme. A history of the poppy: Why we wear them as a symbol of remembrance and other facts.

Charles Dickens - Victorian Author.