Ontario Legislative Building : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Ontario Legislative Building : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

If you’re looking for interesting facts and information about the Ontario Legislative Building, then you’ve come to the right place. This blog post will bring you a travel guide about one of the most iconic landmarks in Canada, located in the heart of Toronto. We’ll also explore some unknown and fascinating facts about the building, its design and the legislative power that resides within its walls. Plus, we’ll give you information on how you can get to the Legislative Building and what you can do once you get there. So get ready to embark on an amazing journey of learning about this historic building!

Interesting Facts About Ontario Legislative Building

1. The Ontario Legislative building, or the “Ontario Parliament Buildings” as it is often referred to, is the oldest surviving legislative building in Canada, having been in continuous use since 1893.

2. The exterior design of the building is modeled after the Royal Exchange in London, England.

3. The new legislative chamber was designed by famed Toronto architect E.J. Lennox, who was also responsible for the design of Toronto’s iconic Old City Hall.

4. It was built with three stories of Barre stone, a type of limestone quarried in Quebec.

5. Each legislature meeting, in a tradition that has been kept up for over 100 years, a wooden mace is carried in and placed above the Speaker’s chair.

6. The Ontario Legislative Building was the first government building in Canada to be lit up with electric lights.

7. It is currently the seat of the Legislative Assembly of Ontario and the premiere site for the Government of Ontario.

8. The Legislative Building contains over 1,000 rooms and the central block of the building covers an area of 8,000 square metres.

9. The most iconic symbol of the Legislative Building is the Peace Tower, topped with a 51-foot copper and gold clock that chimes every hour on the hour.

10. The building has undergone multiple renovations throughout its existence, the last being in 2009 when the north and south wings were renovated in order to improve accessibility.

History & Information About Ontario Legislative Building

The Ontario Legislative Building in Toronto, Ontario is a spectacular example of Beaux-Arts style architecture and the centerpiece of the city’s downtown core. The building is home to the Legislative Assembly of Ontario, the provincial parliament of the Canadian province.

The construction of the building began in 1886 and was completed in 1893, at a cost of more than $1.25 million. It was designed by architect E.J. Lennox and modelled after the Louvre in Paris, France. It features a large central body, flanked by a pair of towers, which are crowned with elaborate copper-covered domes.

Inside, the building houses the legislative chamber, where Members of Provincial Parliament (MPPs) debate and pass all Ontario laws. It also contains the offices of the premier of Ontario, the Lieutenant Governor of the province, the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, and other offices.

Throughout its history, the building’s interior and exterior have been changed to reflect the times. For example, in 1953 the original copper domes were replaced with copper-clad steel for safety reasons. The building’s Lombardy poplar trees, which are planted in a circle along the driveway, were added in 1964. The changes weren’t finished until the 1970s when the iconic lion statues were added.

Today, the Ontario Legislative Building continues to be a popular tourist attraction as well as a reminder of Ontario’s political history. It is open to the public and offers guided tours during the summer months. The building is a designated National Historic Site of Canada.

Travel Guide For Visiting Ontario Legislative Building

The Ontario Legislative Building, located in downtown Toronto, is an iconic landmark of the city. Built in 1893, the building is one of Toronto’s oldest and most recognizable buildings. Visitors can get a glimpse of the breathtaking architecture, learn about the history, and explore the many attractions within the building.

How To Get There:

The Ontario Legislative Building is located at Queen’s Park Circle in downtown Toronto. Public transportation is available to the area, with the closest stations being Queen’s Park Station or St. Patrick Station. Visitors can also easily access the building by walking, biking, or driving.

Hours:

The Ontario Legislative Building is open to visitors from 9 am to 5 pm, with some exceptions due to special events. It is closed on Canada Day and the day after.

What To See & Do:

The Ontario Legislative Building is home to many attractions, including:

• Tours – Guided tours of the building are available throughout the year. Visitors will get an inside look at the historic building and its many features.

• Art – The building is home to many famous art works, including the massive painting depicting the birth of Canada.

• Events – The legislative building offers many events and activities for visitors, from outdoor festivals to educational seminars.

• Gift Shop – The Gift Shop in the legislative building is the perfect place to buy souvenirs and memorabilia related to the building and its history.

• Dining – There are several restaurants and cafes located in and around the legislative building, offering a variety of cuisines and flavors to satisfy any palate.

No visit to Toronto is complete without visiting the Ontario Legislative Building. Whether you’re looking to gain an educational experience or explore a unique piece of history, the Ontario Legislative Building is a must-visit destination.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ontario Legislative Building

Q. When was the Ontario Legislative Building built?

A. The Ontario Legislative Building was built between 1893 and 1894.

Q. What is the architecture style of the Ontario Legislative Building?

A. The Ontario Legislative Building was designed in the Richardsonian Romanesque style of architecture.

Q. Who was the architect behind the Ontario Legislative Building?

A. Architectural Frank Darling and architect John A. Pearson were responsible for the design of the Ontario Legislative Building.

Q. What is the function of the Ontario Legislative Building?

A. The Ontario Legislative Building is the primary meeting place for the Legislative Assembly of Ontario, the Parliament of Ontario. It is used for legislative meetings, public events, and other gatherings.

Q. How many floors does the Ontario Legislative Building have?

A. The Ontario Legislative Building has four storeys, including a basement level.

About me

Hello,My name is Aparna Patel,I’m a Travel Blogger and Photographer who travel the world full-time with my hubby.I like to share my travel experience.

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