Hannah from Just Another Day and I were able to meet up yesterday, and had the most fantastic day! History and Cath Kidston with a fellow blogger, what more can a girl ask for?? A wander out to Greenwich meant my first ride on the DLR and an absolutely gorgeous park. While I can’t wait to show you the entirety of the Queen’s House, I am going to start with what is typically an unassuming part of most of our houses…
For anyone who doesn’t know, the Queen’s House at Greenwich dates back to the early seventeenth century when it was designed by Inigo Jones. Notably, it was the first building in England to have been consciously and specifically built in the classical style. Built for Anne of Denmark, the wife of James VI/I, it is now part of the Royal Maritime Museum. However, one architectural feature stands out to me the most- the Tulip Stairs!
According to the museum, the Tulip Stairs “are the first centrally unsupported stairs in England, copying a Venetian model. The stone treads lock perfectly into each other and the wall, requiring no central structure and creating the famous upwards view. The striking wrought-iron rail has been restored to its original smalt blue. It has long been described as showing tulips but they are probably lilies, the royal flower of France, in compliment to Henrietta Maria”. (Henrietta Maria was Queen Consort for Charles I.)
The stairs truly are gorgeous- the blue wrought-iron work is so striking against the white walls, and the flowers are gorgeous without being dizzying! Also, apparently this staircase is haunted. Sadly, no ghost sighting for us, but if you have a picture or video, please send my way… (strictly research, of course- I am a scaredy cat, but as I’ve gone now, I could manage…) Quite different from other some royal staircases but still lovely in its own right!
Have you been to see the Tulip Stairs in the Queen’s House?
Cheers,
The Historian
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest | Bloglovin’
It’s really interesting how the tulip (or lily) rail isn’t the only marvelous architectural thing about the stairs, although it’s the most visually beautiful part.
Thank you for sharing! ?
I know- the engineers I know would focus on the part that I think is quite boring haha!! I am really taking a lot in, architecture-wise this trip, and I am learning SO MUCH
I LOVE those stairs ? Also had such a great day! ?
The BEST day!!
These are gorgeous – I haven’t visited in person though.