Banqueting House

Tuesday, June 16, 2009

Being inspired by buildings in Italy, designer, Inigo Jones, decided to recreate something to their same effect in London. The Banqueting House was the exquisite result, looking like a piece of ancient Rome. It was built in 1622 and was originally a part of the great Palace of Whitehall, the sovereign’s main London residence. In 1698, a destructive fire destroyed the Palace, leaving the Banqueting House undamaged.

The Banqueting House has remarkable art by Peter Paul Rubens displayed on the ceiling. The paintings took years to complete. The building was originally intended to be used for masques, receptions, and entertainment but as soon as the ceiling was installed, the entertainment turned elsewhere because the candlelight smoke began to damage the paint. However, the Banqueting House is being used today for evening events, entertainment and other events. It can hold approximately 380 for a lunch, dinner, or banquet, while nearly 400 can enjoy a cocktail reception. What a remarkable place to experience!!

By: Erica Whitehead