Parliament House : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Welcome to the Parliament House Travel Guide! Parliament House is the governmental building in many countries which houses the legislative bodies of those respective countries. In this travel guide, we will tell you some interesting facts about Parliament Houses around the world, so you can learn even more about some of the most important places in your travels. We will also provide some useful information on how to get the most out of your experience while visiting a Parliament House. So, come along with us on a journey and learn all about Parliament Houses and the people who make them work!

Interesting Facts About Parliament House

1. The first Parliament House was completed in 1859 and has housed the New South Wales Parliament since 1891.

2. It took the builders from 1851 to 1859 to construct the building with labour from convicts and free settlers.

3. The original flag pole at Parliament House was over 70 Feet tall and was filled with quicklime to support the weight of the massive marooned-coloured flag.

4. The heavy sandstone blocks used to construct the building were quarried from Pyrmont and Glebe.

5. The building has undergone a number of alterations over the years, including extensions in the late 1800s and additional renovations in the 1990s.

6. The Parliament House has been the site of several historic events, including the Royal reception for aviatrix Amelia Earhart in 1928, and the state funeral of future Prime Minister Billy Hughes in 1952.

7. The building is now listed on the NSW State Heritage Register, for its cultural and historical significance.

8. In 2010, the roof of Parliament House was replaced with a sustainable design which captured and stored water, reduced waste and delivered energy savings of more than 40%.

9. The original design of the building included a tower on the eastern corner, which was removed in the 1850s due to problems with the stonework.

10. In 2018, Parliament House hosted an exhibition featuring the work of Indigenous artists from across New South Wales.

• Parliament House : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

History & Information About Parliament House

Parliament House in Sydney, New South Wales, is the oldest parliament building in Australia. The building was designed in 1816 by Francis Greenway, an ex-convict, but construction did not begin until 1819.

The building is in the Classical Revival style, with Doric columns and a dome roof. It is located on the corner of Macquarie and Bridge Streets, overlooking Sydney Harbour.

The building remained the seat of government and politics in New South Wales until 1927 when the New South Wales Parliament relocated to the new Parliament House building. The old building was subsequently used for office space, however, its heritage and significance was recognised and it has since been restored to its original grandeur.

Parliament house is a significant landmark in Sydney, having seen protests, demonstrations, royal visits, concerts, student activities. It is a popular landmark for tourists looking for a piece of history and for locals alike. The building is open to the public for guided tours, and is also home to the New South Wales Museum, Library and Art Gallery which are open to visitors.

Today, Parliament House is recognized as one of the grandest of colonial parliament buildings in Australia and is included on the National Heritage List. It remains a symbol of democracy, an important stately home open to the public and a reminder of the early days of Australia’s struggle for self-governance.

• Cape Otway Lighthouse : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide
• Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Travel Guide For Visiting Parliament House

The Parliament House in Sydney, New South Wales is the seat of the Government of New South Wales and is a stunning piece of history and architecture. It is an impressive sight, and if you wish to explore its inner workings and learn more about the important role it plays in state politics you can do so with a guided tour and the Parliament House Library.

Getting There:

The Parliament House is located in Macquarie Street, Sydney and is easily accessed by public transport. Trains from nearby Sydney Central Station run regularly, and the Parliament House is a short walk from the Museum Station. Busses are also available from various points in the city.

Opening Times and Tours:
The House is open to visitors most days from 9am to 5pm. The Library is open from 9am to 5:30pm Monday to Friday and 9am to 4:30pm on Saturdays.

Guided tours of the Parliament House are available at various times during morning and afternoon sessions. The tours are free of charge, but tickets must be booked in advance.

Museum of Sydney:
The Museum of Sydney is located on the lower level of the Parliament House. Here you can learn about the history of the Parliament House and state politics. The museum has interactive displays and a permanent exhibition called ‘Inside Parliament’.

Tea Rooms:
Hungry? You can enjoy a relaxing meal or snack in the Parliament House tea rooms, with a vibrant mix of items on the menu to satisfy any appetite.

Gift Shop:
The Parliament House gift shop is the perfect place to find souvenirs and memorabilia of your visit. It has a range of items including books, mugs, clothing and other items related to the building and its history.

Parliament House offers a wonderful opportunity to discover the history of New South Wales and its political system. Whether you’re just passing by or deciding to stay for a while, it’s an opportunity worth taking.

• Federation Square : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Frequently Asked Questions About Parliament House

Q: Where is Parliament House located?

A: Parliament House is located at 6 Macquarie Street in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.

Q: What facilities are available at the Parliament House?

A: Parliament House offers visitor facilities such as guided tours, a café, and a souvenir shop.

Q: Is parking available at Parliament House?

A: Yes, there is limited parking available at the underground carpark off nearby Macquarie Street.

Q: What security measures are in place at Parliament House?

A: Security is taken very seriously at Parliament House. All visitors must pass through an orderly security process before entering.

Q: Is the Parliament House open to public?

A: Visitors are welcome to visit the visitor areas of Parliament House. Certain areas of the House may be off limits due to restricted access.

• Australian Museum : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide
• National Portrait Gallery : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide
• Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide