Indulging in extravagant feasts throughout history, these banquets were grand spectacles of excess and luxury.

In 1873, a German businessman orchestrated a lavish gathering in New York, featuring a colossal table, a pond of swans, and a 35-piece band.

Centuries earlier, in 1520, the meeting between Henry VII of England and François I of France resulted in an 18-day celebration filled with feasts, games, and religious services.

Queen Victoria marked a historic moment with a wedding cake weighing 300 pounds (136.07kg), setting the precedent for elaborate wedding cakes.

Richard III’s coronation banquet featured spiced dishes and aquatic creatures, symbolizing the extravagance associated with royal celebrations.

George IV’s 1821 coronation showcased English nobility and foreign dignitaries, with a spectacular event costing the modern equivalent of $27 million.

Russian Grand Duke Nicholas experienced a lavish ball in Brighton Beach, featuring a menu boasting over 100 dishes.

Roman Emperor Nero hosted banquets with rotating halls, cascades of flowers, and recitals, displaying his love for extravagant entertainment.

Cleopatra, in a bold wager, spent the equivalent of half a million dollars on a single cup of wine, showcasing her flair for the dramatic.

The allure of these decadent banquets lies in their extravagance, reflecting the socio-political climate and the insatiable desire for opulence throughout history.