Visiting the British Queen: it seems that time has stopped here

This amazing place is the rooms of Balmoral Castle, the residence of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in Scotland. It seems as if time has stopped here: the whole situation has remained almost unchanged since the 70s of the last century. The interior is furnished very democratically, but at the same time exquisitely and with respect for long-standing traditions.

The Queen always tries to show her subjects an example of modesty and prudent economy, especially since the royal family treats taxpayers' money sparingly.

Source: Daily Mail

In September 2017, Her Majesty held several official receptions at her Scottish Balmoral estate.

The Queen received the Governor-General of Canada Julie Payette in the library of the estate. Let's take a closer look at the very curious details of its interior.

This is how the same library looked 40 years ago, in 1977.

Comparing these two photos, we can conclude that the queen is very economical. Instead of an expensive fireplace insert, an ordinary heater. The floor covering is the simplest. This is a good illustration of the fact that true greatness is not expressed in gilded chic.

The British are distinguished by economy, especially when it comes to heating. Usually in winter, the indoor temperature is 16-18 degrees, and they heat only a few hours a day. The Queen uses a simple electric convector. Similar models were installed in the palace in 1992 and have not been changed since then.

Here is another proof of royal thrift and rationality: in the 70s, fabric was used for sofa upholstery, and now, 40 years later, sofa cushions are sewn from the same fabric.

The books on the shelves are in the same order as 40 years ago.

Her Majesty does not hesitate to show up at official receptions in the same clothes: on the left — a photo taken in 2017, on the right — in 2014.

Even in her youth, Elizabeth II did not spend fabulous sums on exquisite outfits, preferring a conservative style, and with age she completely reduced her wardrobe expenses.

The only innovation in the royal library: Samsung TV with skybox.

The main living room of Balmoral Castle, where Queen Elizabeth II receives guests, is also quite modest.

This photo was taken during the reception of Peter Cosgrove, the Governor-General of Australia, with his wife. It happens in the living room, let's look at its interior in detail.

For comparison, the same room in 1976.

Fireplace in the living room as a tribute to tradition. While the Queen ordered electric heaters to be installed in other rooms of Balmoral, a fireplace with a live fire remained in this one. The fireplace is supposed to have been installed under Queen Victoria, it is decorated with a thistle pattern — the national flower of Scotland.

In 2008, the British wondered how much it costs them to maintain the royal family. According to the official statement of the Buckingham Palace press service, the amount is relatively small - 40 million pounds a year (in terms of all residents of the country — 66 pence (about 50 rubles) from each).