It is said that Elizabeth II never preferred living in Buckingham Palace in the British capital. The queen recently hinted that she wanted to spend her final days at Windsor Castle, expressing that she never liked her palace in London. After the passing of her husband, the 95-year-old queen indicated to those close to her that she wished to spend her last days at Windsor Castle, a place she seems to have special feelings for. This oldest castle in the kingdom was constructed at the behest of William the Conqueror on the only hill overlooking the River Thames.
The queen does not need a guide or assistant to navigate her second home, which is filled with rooms, as she knows it by heart. Even during the pandemic, her schedule was divided into four work days in London and three weekend days at Windsor Castle, where the rural lifestyle in Berkshire appears comfortable and more suitable for her age.
Windsor Castle was built by the first Duke of Buckingham in 1705, purchased by King George III in 1762, and expanded by the famous architect John Nash in 1821. The building is known for its unusual stone facade and contains 700 rooms, including 19 reception rooms, 52 royal bedrooms, 188 other rooms designated for staff, 78 bathrooms, 92 offices, several kilometers of corridors, 20 acres of gardens, and two acres of water ponds, employing 600 staff members.
The decor of the castle dates back to the era of King Edward VII, featuring thick red carpets, heavy furniture, and antiques that impress guests. The staff affectionately nicknames the castle "B.B." and claims that despite its magnificent architecture, the building lacks a soul.
Photos of Windsor Castle.