St. James's Palace, one of London's oldest and most important royal residences, has a rich history dating back to the Tudor period. Built by Henry VIII between 1531 and 1536, it was constructed on the site of a former leper hospital dedicated to St. James the Less. The palace was designed as a secondary residence to complement the more formal Whitehall Palace, which was the principal royal residence at the time.

Tudor and Stuart Eras

St. James's Palace initially served as a retreat for the Tudor monarchs. It was where Henry VIII’s son Edward VI was born and where Queen Mary I spent her final days. Queen Elizabeth I also spent time at St. James's, using it as a refuge during political turmoil. During the Stuart era, it continued to serve the monarchy, although it was overshadowed by Whitehall and later Buckingham Palace.

Georgian and Victorian Periods

Under King George III in the 18th century, St. James's Palace became the administrative heart of the monarchy. Official court events and diplomatic receptions were held there, marking it as the formal "Court of St. James's," a title still used for the British court. Although George III later moved to Buckingham Palace, St. James's remained the venue for many state events and royal receptions.

Modern Use

Today, St. James's Palace remains a working royal residence and is often the site for official receptions and events hosted by members of the British royal family. It also serves as the London residence for various members of the royal family and is still the official residence of the court, with ambassadors and diplomats accredited to "The Court of St. James's."

While it is not open to the public, St. James's Palace holds a place of high symbolic importance in British history and continues to host a range of royal and state functions, upholding a centuries-long legacy.