Blenheim Palace - England's greatest palace

During the war of the spanish succession in from 1701 to 1714 General John Churchill was commander and chief of the armies from five countries. Under churchill they never lost a battle. He is to this day considered one of England's greatest generals. 

The war of the spanish succession was centered around the idea of unification of  france and spain under a bourbon king. This would have greatly upset the balance of power in europe and -  if not for john Churchill - may have ultimately led to a successful invasion of england.

Perhaps the most notable of Churchill's victories was the battle of Blenheim in Bavaria.  The general made a forced march 250 miles with his 52,000 man army to save the city of Vienna from falling into enemy hands.  The Franco-Bavarians were routed decisively and less than 25% of the French soldiers ever say France again.  In honor of this great victory Queen Ann awarded Churchill the title "Duke of Marbourgh" , and a vast some of money to build a magnificent palace. 

Unlike buckingham palace, Blenheim is serenely located in the country side in front of a huge lake built for the palace, but still very natural looking. It is truly the British Versailles.  However, more importantly than the grandeur of the palace, or the Duke of Marbourgh is it's connection with an even greater World hero: Yes, Winston Churchill, a descendent of John Churchill, born and raised at Blenheim palace. 

Winston churchill was, aside from england greatest ever political leader, also a painter, author, horseman and a soldier who fought on the front lines on FIVE continents!  He wrote all of his own speeches and I wish people thought more like him today.