Then, after the Windsor Castle fire of November 1992, it was agreed that the tax payers should not pick up the bill for restoration, but that Buckingham Palace would be open to the public in the summer and the money raised in that way instead.

BBC: The changing face of the monarchy

Even a Michelin two-star chef couldn't tempt some acrophobic invitees to an exclusive lunch overlooking the Belgian royal palace last summer.

WSJ: High Table: Diners Dangle From Crane

Then, in the summer of 1669, came Louis's order to dismantle the ancient lodge and build a grand new palace, based upon the unfinished stone envelope.

FORBES: Palace Coup

Owners hope to open the famed Garden District restaurant Commander's Palace in late spring or early summer.

CNN: Mardi Gras to fatten New Orleans tourism