Biiiiiiiiiigggg Palace

 

 

    While our excursion to Blenheim Palace could probably be more accurately described as a rural environment, the entire complex I believe functioned similarly to an urban space. What I found most intriguing about Blenheim was the realization that the ways in which the grounds are experienced now are vastly different from the past. Specifically pertaining to the idea of social class, and how maybe 150 years ago the palace's main residents would have never set foot in the Blenheim gardens, yet now it serves as an attraction, now more of a privilege than a symbol of class and poverty. This realization itself reminds me of urban environments and how globalization including an increase in tourism can so drastically change the way people experience spaces and interpret a place's history. I was also impressed with the structure of the palace and how the grounds had such an efficient parking lot, site-to-site transportation via shuttle, and even the capacity for large events/concerts. The palace absolutely did NOT disappoint and not only awed me with its fantastic architecture but also with the landscaping and views of nature. My favorite part about the excursion was the ducks, they were cuteeeeee and I fed them pizza crust :)

 - Francesca :)