A
palace is a grand residence, especially a royal residence or the home of a
head of state or some other high-ranking
dignitary, such as a
bishop or
archbishop.
The word itself is derived from the
Latin name Palātium, for
Palatine Hill, one of the seven hills in
Rome.
In many parts of
Europe, the term is also applied to ambitious private
mansions of the
aristocracy. Many historic palaces are now put to other uses such as
parliaments,
museums,
hotels or
office buildings. The word is also sometimes used to describe a lavishly ornate building used for public entertainment or exhibitions.