Palaces often evoke a certain delight, sparking curiosity for the most fantastical displays of grandeur and opulence. The most beautiful palaces in the world all speak to that feeling—while also spanning vastly across centuries, countries, and architectural styles. Long used as official royal residences, they have stood as symbols of wealth and status, while showcasing what the epitome of taste and refinement looks like in different time periods and cultures.
Diversified in both style and function, these palaces are chock-full of rich details that reflect the values of entire civilizations, from the Mysore Palace in India illuminated each year for Dussehra (a major Hindu festival), to the design of Summer Palace in Beijing, which conjures Buddhist and Daoist ideals of spiritual reflection and detachment.
Despite certain differences, they remain united in their reflection of great architecture and are homages to entire empires of taste. From those that boast the finest gardens to ones that offer grandiose displays of craftsmanship and the decorative arts, AD brings you a curated selection of the 11 most beautiful palaces found around the world.
