Parliament Buildings : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Are you interested in learning more about Canada’s Parliament Buildings? This travel guide will provide you with interesting facts about the Parliament Buildings, perspective on the building’s history and useful information for visitors. From the iconic Peace Tower to the Library of Parliament, you’ll discover the hidden gems and unique cultural importance of the Parliament Buildings. After reading, you’ll be inspired to explore the Parliament Buildings for yourself and see why it continues to captivate millions of visitors each year.

Interesting Facts About Parliament Buildings

1. The British Columbia Legislature in Victoria is the oldest legislature in the Dominion of Canada. It was established in 1856 when the Colony of Vancouver Island was formed.

2. The building is the only legislature in the country to feature a fairy-tale themed roof.

3. The domed main chamber is one of the oldest in Canada, built in 1898.

4. The building’s sculptures were carved mainly from Oregon Granite and Foam Lake Granite in the late 1980s.

5. Over 100 mosaic tablets adorn the walls of the inner colonnade and portico terrace, each honoring a different aspect of British Columbia’s history.

6. The iconic statue of Queen Victoria stands at the corner of Belleville Street. It was unveiled in July 1886.

7. In 2005, the British Columbia Legislature became the first LEED certified government building in the world.

8. The building is open year-round and is available for guided tours and events.

9. In 2012, the legislature was lit up in national colors as part of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations.

10. In 2015, parliament buildings were outfitted with 16 bell towers to house the original Stevenson bells.

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History & Information About Parliament Buildings

The Parliament Buildings in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada are the oldest existing legislative buildings in Canada. They house the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia, as the site has done since the 1880s.

The historic buildings are located on the south end of the city’s inner harbour and are made up of the Parliament Buildings proper, which includes the Legislative Chamber, plus the surrounding landscape of manicured lawns and gardens, including the provincial Flagpole and the British Columbia Coat of Arms.

The buildings were designed in a High Victorian style of architecture by English architect, Francis Rattenbury, who is known for designing many prominent landmarks throughout British Columbia. Construction began in 1893 and the Legislative Chamber was open for business by 1898.

Over the years, the Parliament Buildings has seen several renovations, expansions, and additions, allowing for a larger and more modern Legislative Chamber. In addition, the original architects’ buildings have been joined by several other government offices.

The Parliament Buildings are open to the public, offering guided tours and a unique insight into the workings of the legislative process. It is also a popular tourist destination and a mix of both historic and modern architecture.

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Travel Guide For Visiting Parliament Buildings

The magnificent Parliament Buildings in beautiful Victoria, British Columbia, are a must-see when visiting Canada’s prettiest city. Its imposing stone walls and stunning Edwardian architecture make it a popular tourist attraction throughout the year. Here are some tips to help you plan your visit to the Parliament Buildings.

Hours & Getting There:

The Parliament Buildings are open for visitors from 8:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. daily. You can take the City of Victoria bus for a direct route from downtown to the Parliament Buildings, or there is plenty of paid and free parking available nearby.

What to See:

Your tour of the Parliament Buildings starts in the courtyard. Admire the intricate detail of its enormous front doors, various statues, and 4,500 shrubs that make up the grounds. Once you are inside the building, you can take a tour of the north and south wings, and bask in the beauty of the grand lobbies and chambers. As you explore, you can also learn about the history and political structure of British Columbia.

When to Go:

The best time to visit the Parliament Buildings is during the summer months (June-August). During this time, you can join in on guided tours and take in the beauty of nature that surrounds the building. You can even take in a live garden show or listen to speeches in the legislature.

Other Things to Do:

In addition to exploring the Parliament Buildings, there is plenty to do in the vicinity. Spend some time exploring nearby downtown Victoria, its charming shops and galleries, or take a leisurely walk in the park around the building. You can also stop by the nearby Art Gallery of Greater Victoria to admire the local works of art.

Safety Tips:

When visiting the Parliament Buildings, make sure you keep all your personal belongings with you at all times. Avoid bringing large bags, luggage, or any backpacks that could cause alarm or disruption. It’s also important to keep an eye out for any suspicious activity or people. If you do notice anything unusual, alert a security officer or policeman immediately.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Parliament Buildings

Q. When were the Parliament Buildings in Victoria, British Columbia constructed?

A. The Parliament Buildings in Victoria, British Columbia were constructed between 1893 and 1916.

Q. Who designed the Parliament Buildings?

A. The Parliament Buildings were designed by Francis Rattenbury, a British Architect.

Q. What type of style is the Parliament Building?

A. The Parliament Buildings are a combination of Second Empire and Neo-Baroque styles.

Q. Are the Parliament Buildings open to the public?

A. Yes, the Parliament Buildings are open to the public and offer tours.

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