|
Every summer morning at 11:30, The Changing of the Guard takes place at
Buckingham Palace. The ceremony lasts 1 ½ hour and is a fine example
of military pageantry. The new guard, marching behind a band, comes
from their barracks and takes over from the old guard in the forecourt of
the palace. One should arrive early because the pageantry draws huge
crowds.
The best viewing spot for the total pageantry is from Queen
Victoria Memorial.
If one
wants to view the actual changing of the guard, stand at the fence
surrounding Buckingham Palace. If it should
rain, the ceremony is shortened.
The men you will see in front of Buckingham Palace (and other locations)
are not just ceremonial guards but also serving soldiers. While upholding
the traditions of the past, they also perform duties throughout the world
as professional soldiers and are known as some of the most elite and
skilled soldiers in the British Army.
|
