Parliament House : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

If you are a history buff or looking to explore significant historical sites, the Parliament House easily deserves a top spot on your list. Located in the heart of the nation’s capital of Canberra, it is home to the Parliament of Australia. Not only is the Parliament House a significant symbol of Australian democracy, but it is also one of the most architecturally impressive buildings in Australia. Over the years, several additions, renovations, and impressive modern touches have made this building an awe-inspiring site of both beauty and substance. From its colorful stained glass windows and stone carvings to its grand, circular aesthetics, there is no denying that the Parliament House is a sight to behold. In this blog, we will be discussing some interesting facts about the Parliament House, as well as provide a comprehensive travel guide of the area. Thanks for being here; let’s get started!

Interesting Facts About Parliament House

1. The Parliament House in Melbourne, Victoria is the oldest Australian state Parliament House still in use.

2. The building was designed in the Victorian Free Classical style by the architect Peter Kerr and includes a number of elaborate features, including two classical porticoes and a grand staircase.

3. During its construction in 1856, there was a heated debate over whether the building should have a skylight or a dome. In the end, the then-Premier of Victoria, Sir Charles Sladen, and the Legislative Council both decided against a dome.

4. Parliament House was built on land previously owned by John Pascoe Fawkner, the founder of Melbourne. An obelisk marks the site where Fawkner’s house stood prior to the construction.

5. In 1889, a fire destroyed much of the original Parliament House, including the Legislative Assembly chamber. This was eventually replaced by a new chamber, which is now the oldest surviving chamber in the building.

6. During the 1930s, the most radical modifications to Parliament House included the addition of a new clock tower, which is now the landmark of the building.

7. Parliament House in Melbourne is the only parliament building in Australia to be a State Heritage Place.

• Parliament House : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

History & Information About Parliament House

The Parliament House in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, is the meeting place of the Parliament of Victoria and the home of the Queen’s representative in the state, the Governor of Victoria. It houses the Legislative Assembly and the Legislative Council, the two Houses of the Parliament of Victoria.

The Parliament House was designed by renowned architect John George Knight in the Gothic Revival style of the period and completed in 1856. It is located on Spring Street in the heart of Melbourne’s political and commercial district.

The building has enjoyed a long and eventful history, including the development of Victoria’s Constitution, a radical alteration in 1926 and the adoption of a republican form of government in 1999. Victorian Parliament House is also well-known for its parliamentary etiquette and rich ceremonial traditions.

The Parliament House has undergone a series of renovations and extensions to accommodate the increasing numbers of the staff and members of the chambers. Today it is a modern complex with a number of offices and chambers for the Legislative Assembly. The building also includes a grand staircase in honor of Queen Victoria, a grand dining hall, a clock tower, and several art galleries as well as beautifully manicured landscaped gardens and grounds.

The Victorian Parliament House is open to public tours daily. The Parliament also hosts free, weekly informative discussions every Thursday known as “Question Time in the Chamber” which provide an insight into the parliamentary process.

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Travel Guide For Visiting Parliament House

1. Introduction:

Parliament House in Melbourne, Victoria, is the seat of the Government of Victoria and the home of the Parliament of Victoria. It was opened in 1837 and is the oldest parliament house in Australia, standing as a symbol of democracy and the self-government of the people of Victoria. Parliament House offers a fascinating insight into Victoria’s history and a tour of the building can be a great way to learn about the state’s politics and parliamentary process.

2. How to Get There:

Parliament House is located in Spring Street, Melbourne CBD. It can be reached by tram (Route 86, 96 or 109) or by train (from Flinders Street Station). There is no charge for entry.

3. What to See:

When visiting Parliament House, replete with its impressive Neoclassical façade, visitors can explore the main chamber, the Legislative Council chamber, the Queen’s Hall, the Legislative Assembly chamber, and the Library. The building also houses special collections related to the history of parliament and Victorian politics, as well as an impressive bronze statue of Queen Victoria. Guided tours are available daily and the grandeur of the English oak fixtures, polished to a high sheen in the main chamber, and the impressive collection of twentieth-century art can be enjoyed.

4. Other Nearby Attractions:

Near Parliament House, tourists can also visit the Old Treasury Building, the Royal Exhibition Building, and the Melbourne Museum. The historic district of Carlton, with an abundance of historic pubs and cafes, is just a short walk away. The Dockland’s precinct, Southbank, and the vibrant cultural hub of Federation Square are also nearby.

5. When to Visit:

Parliament House is open to the public from 10am to 4pm daily, with the exception of public holidays and long weekends. For those interested in taking a guided tour, these are available three days a week, during the winter months only (generally June to October).

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Frequently Asked Questions About Parliament House

Q1: Where is the Parliament House located?
A1: Parliament House is located at Spring Street, Melbourne, Victoria.

Q2: What are the opening hours for Parliament House?
A2: Official opening times for the Parliament House are; Monday-Friday from 9 am-5 pm and Saturdays from 10 am-4 pm

Q3: Are there tours available of Parliament House?
A3: Yes, guided tours of Parliament House and the Legislative Assembly are available Thursday-Sunday from 10 am-4 pm.

Q4: Are there any upcoming events at Parliament House?
A4: Yes, please see Parliament House’s website and social media pages for updates on upcoming events.

Q5: Is there a dress code for visitors visiting Parliament House?
A5: Yes, visitors are asked to dress respectfully and wear enclosed shoes.

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