Whitehall Palace was the primary residence of the royal family from 1530 until the building's destruction by fire in 1698. The Banqueting House is the last remaining section of this historic palace, and is an excellent example of the architecture of that time period. It was built to house various masques, balls, plays, and important state events. It has seen other, more nefarious moments, being the site of the execution of King Charles I. After the fire destroyed the rest of the palace, the building was used first as a church chapel and then as a museum for the state. Be sure to leave some time to explore the displays, and be sure to check out the stunning interior decoration, especially ceiling artwork by Sir Peter Paul Rubens.