Construction of the Original Palace
The original Palace of Westminster was constructed under the reign of Edward the Confessor. This early structure served as a royal residence for the monarchs of England.
1045
1295
Model Parliament
The Model Parliament, convened by Edward I, met at the Palace of Westminster. This assembly is considered a precursor to the modern Parliament of England.
1512
Fire of 1512
A significant fire damaged the residential areas of the Palace of Westminster. After this event, Henry VIII moved the royal residence to Whitehall Palace, and the Palace of Westminster became primarily a parliamentary building.
1834
The Great Fire of 1834
A devastating fire destroyed much of the Palace of Westminster. The fire led to the need for a complete reconstruction of the building.
1840
Reconstruction Begins
The reconstruction of the Palace of Westminster began under the design of architects Charles Barry and Augustus Pugin. Their Gothic Revival design would come to define the iconic appearance of the Palace.
1852
Completion of the House of Lords Chamber
The House of Lords Chamber was completed and opened, marking a significant milestone in the reconstruction of the Palace of Westminster.
1859
Completion of Big Ben
The clock tower, now known as the Elizabeth Tower, was completed. It houses the Great Bell, commonly referred to as Big Ben.
1860
Completion of the House of Commons Chamber
The House of Commons Chamber was completed, finalizing the major reconstruction efforts of the Palace of Westminster.
1941
World War II Bombing
The Palace of Westminster was damaged during the Blitz in World War II. The House of Commons Chamber was particularly affected and required extensive repairs.
1950
Reopening of the House of Commons Chamber
The House of Commons Chamber was reopened after being rebuilt following the damage sustained during World War II.
1970
Designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site
The Palace of Westminster, along with Westminster Abbey and Saint Margaret's Church, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its cultural and historical significance.
1987
Restoration of the Victoria Tower
The Victoria Tower underwent significant restoration work to preserve its structural integrity and historical value.
2000
Modernization Efforts
A series of modernization efforts were initiated to update the facilities within the Palace of Westminster, ensuring it could meet the needs of contemporary parliamentary functions.
2017
Comprehensive Restoration Plan Announced
A comprehensive restoration and renewal plan for the Palace of Westminster was announced, aiming to address the building's aging infrastructure and preserve it for future generations.
2022
Start of Major Restoration Works
Major restoration works began as part of the long-term plan to refurbish and preserve the Palace of Westminster. These works are expected to continue for several years.
