In and Around London - CD-vel [antikvár]

ABOVE: The Houses of Porlioment on ihe bonks of ifie River Thames. The Union flog is hoisled on Victorio Tower when Potliomenl is in session. The heart of Britain's power is in essence based in the Houses of ParHament ahhough the country has no written constitution. Known correctly as the New Palace of Westminster, this imposing home to democracy stands proudly beside the River Thames and the Lords and the Commons regularly meet to debate and pass laws. Edward the Confessor originally established a royal home - the Old Palace - to keep a watchful eye on the building of the nearby Westminster Abbey. The palace was later used to assemble the King's Council and the Great Parliament of 1265. It was destroyed by a devastating fire in 1834, portrayed in J. M. W. Turner's painting, The Burning ofthe Houses of Lords and Commons, October 16, 1834. The New Palace of Westminster was rebuilt in Gothic style by leading architect Sir Charles Barry to reflect the important work going on within its walls.