What is changing of the guard?

The Changing of the Guard is a ceremony that takes place in many countries around the world, in which a unit of soldiers replaces another unit as the official guards of a particular location. The ceremony is often performed at palaces, government buildings and other important landmarks.

The ceremony typically involves military bands playing music, soldiers marching and saluting, and a formal handover of duties between the outgoing and incoming guards. The changing of the guard is often a tourist attraction and a symbol of the country's military and cultural heritage. In some countries, the ceremony has a long history and is an important part of national identity.

Notable changing of the guard ceremonies include the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace in London, the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery in Washington D.C., and the Changing of the Guard at the Presidential Palace in Athens, Greece.