Sunday 18 May 2008

Blenheim Palace




Blenheim Palace (pronounce BLEN-um) was built in the early 1700's for the First Duke of Marlborough by the grateful Queen Anne after his having defeated the French. It is truly a 'palace' rather than a castle or just a home. All of the rooms (no picture taking allowed) are over the top, like Windsor and the other great palaces.
It is on over 2,000 acres of beautiful grounds and includes a statue of the first Duke on a pedestal, and some manicured gardens behind the house.
Interestingly, Sir Winston Churchill was born in the house, the 7th Duke was his grandfather on his father's side. Many of the displays in the house are about Sir Winston and his political and military careers.
Not sure of the significance, but over the entrance into the house are painted the eyes in the picture. Beautifully painted, and recently restored to their original colors, but kind of weird.

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