The INSIDER Summary:
- From medieval castles to luxury townhouses, world leaders know how to live.
- Each home has their own unique architecture and identity that tourists are able to go see.
From Great Britain’s 10 Downing Street to South Korea’s Blue House, the private residences of world leaders are all unique in their own way. Some are gargantuan palaces, while others are traditional castles, sprawling mansions, or luxury townhouses. Each one displays its own architectural identity and significant historical importance. So where do the world’s presidents and prime ministers retire after a day of running their respective countries? Here, a list of 10 amazing addresses, which are also the official residences of powerful leaders around the world.
Élysée Palace in Paris, France
One of the most opulent residences to house a world leader, the Élysée Palace in Paris, France is a beautiful example of classical architecture. Given its gilded interiors, which are outfitted in gold, velvet curtains, and fine art, it’s no surprise that some former French socialist presidents have chosen to shun the palace for more modest living arrangements. Built in 1722 and home to French presidents since the 1840s, the Élysée Palace is located in the center of Paris, close to the Champs-Élysées. If you want some immediate office envy, check out the Salon Doré (Golden Room) where the French prime minister carries out day-to-day work surrounded by lavish gold walls.
Blue House in Seoul, South Korea
The Blue House, the official residence of the South Korean head of state, boasts a whopping 150,000 blue granite tiles on its roof. One of the few executive residences open to the public, visitors can explore parts of the 62-acre complex in Seoul, which features some beautifully manicured gardens. In 1968, 31 North Korean commandos stormed the palace’s grounds, in an attempt to assassinate the then-president. The mission was unsuccessful.
The White House in Washington D.C., United States
While Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate is getting plenty of attention (it’s even touted as the winter White House), it’s not going to be easy to usurp the famous 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue address in Washington, D.C. The White House is more than 200 years old (building began in October 1792), and while George Washington oversaw the construction, he never had a chance to take over the Oval Office. Outside, the portico columns and whitewashing echo the strong Greek Revival influences, but inside, the style depends on who’s in power. When presidents take office, they don’t just come to the White House with their family, but they also bring their own interior design ideas (it could be home for eight years, after all). However, decorating is not anything new in the White House, which was set ablaze by the British in 1814, destroying its original interior.
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