The Kyoto Imperial Palace is surrounded by an extensive park, called Kyoto Imperial Park, once occupied by the residences of royal families and court nobles of high rank. The palace was destroyed repeatedly by fire. The present building dates from 1855. The Imperial Palace was originally situated at the northern end of the central boulevard of Suzuka. The present site was selected in 1331. The Imperial Family had resided here until 1869, when the seat of the Court was transferred to Tokyo. The palace is now owned by the Government, though still used by the Imperial Houshold. It was customary to perform the Enthronement Ceremony at this palace, following the traditional rituals.