Royal Exhibition Building
Description
The Royal Exhibition Building in Melbourne's Carlton Gardens was constructed to serve as the main venue for the 1880 Melbourne International Exhibition. This stunning building was designed in the style of the international exhibition movement of the late 19th and early 20th centuries and was built to showcase the achievements of the young colony of Victoria. The Royal Exhibition Building has a rich history, as it was the site of Australia's first Federal Parliament in 1901.
The impressive dome of the building was inspired by the Brunelleschi’s cathedral dome in Florence and combines elements from several architectural styles including Byzantine, Romanesque, Lombardic, and Italian Renaissance. This unique blend of styles and stunning architecture have earned it the title of Australia's first building to be given World Heritage listing in 2004.
Today, the Royal Exhibition Building continues to host a variety of trade fairs, cultural events, and public expos every year. The building's grandeur and historical significance make it a must-see destination for visitors to Melbourne.
When there are no events or exhibitions taking place, visitors can take a guided tour of the building starting at 2 pm in the foyer of the Melbourne Museum. The tour provides a fascinating insight into the building's rich history, architecture and significance as an important cultural landmark in Melbourne.