Royal Exhibition Building : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide
- By
- Aparna Patel
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- 19 Jun, 2023
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The Royal Exhibition Building is one of the finest examples of nineteenth century exhibition architecture in the world. Located in Melbourne, Australia, the building was originally constructed in 1880 as the centrepiece for the Melbourne International Exhibition and is currently classified by UNESCO as a World Heritage site. The building has been used for a variety of purposes over the years, including hosting such events as the opening of the first Parliament of Australia and the hosting of the 1956 Olympics. This article will explore the interesting facts, information and travel guide to the Royal Exhibition Building. It will cover topics such as the history of the building, its architecture, the exhibitions that have been held there, the attractions that it currently offers, and tips for making the most out of a visit.
Table of Contents
Interesting Facts About Royal Exhibition Building
1. The Royal Exhibition Building is the world’s oldest surviving exhibition building, having been built in 1879.
2. In 2004, the building was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is one of only two remaining 19th century exhibition pavilions in the world.
3. The building has been the home of many spectacular events throughout its history, including the 1880 International Exhibition, the first Federal Parliament, the Australian Inventions in 1888, the Centennial International Exhibition in 1888 and the British Association for the Advancement of Science in 1901.
4. The building is home to the “Melbourne Museum”, a popular museum covering natural history, science, and cultural history, the “Scienceworks” museum which focusses on interactive science and technology exhibitions and the “Melbourne Planetarium”.
5. The building was also used as a venue for the 1956 Summer Olympics, hosting the weightlifting and wrestling events.
6. The building is covered in a massive dome which was once the largest in the world, and is still the tallest in the southern hemisphere.
7. The building underwent a massive restoration in 2000, restoring the dome to its original condition.
8. The dome can now be accessed after hours, allowing visitors to view the starry night sky and the city skyline from the top.
9. During the Christmas season, the Royal Exhibition Building is host to the annual Christmas festival “Myer Melbourne”. The festival includes live performances, decorations and endless amounts of food!
History & Information About Royal Exhibition Building
The Royal Exhibition Building is a World Heritage listed building in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. It was completed in 1880 and was built for the 1880 International Exhibition, held to celebrate the anniversary of the formation of the colony of Victoria. Designed by Joseph Reed, the building is a masterpiece of early Australian architecture and is of exceptional cultural significance.
Today, the Royal Exhibition Building continues to be used to host major events such as conferences, exhibitions, art displays, festivals and concerts
The original structure measured 794 feet (242 m) by 1676 feet (511 m) and still stands as one of the world’s largest timber buildings. The ceiling of the nave is 143 feet (43.6 m) high and the space can contain over 8,000 people. Its grand entrance is the grand porte-cochere, which was used by dignitaries in the past to ride their horses and carriages up to the entrance and remain out of the rain.
The building underwent upgrades in the 1950s and again in the 1980s and was designed to be environmentally sustainable. It is now included on the National Trust of Australia (Victoria)’s Register of Important Heritage Buildings and is managed by Melbourne Museum.
Since 2013, the Royal Exhibition Building has undergone refurbishment for the Melbourne 180 celebrations and for the ‘Melbourne Comes to Life Project’, a multi-year initiative to bring the building back into use.
Travel Guide For Visiting Royal Exhibition Building
The Royal Exhibition Building in Melbourne, Victoria is a historic landmark and an unparalleled and inspiring venue. Situated in the heart of the city, the Royal Exhibition Building is one of Australia’s premier destinations for cultural, civic, and educational purposes.
The Royal Exhibition Building was designed by Joseph Reed and built in 1880, making it a World Heritage listed building. Inside is a unique collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Victoria’s and Australia’s past. From tools, industrial instruments, and medieval armor to works of art and historical photographs, this exhibition hall has something for everyone.
Once you are inside the building, take the time to explore its many exhibitions and galleries, as well as enjoy a guided tour. Some of the featured exhibitions include the Living Museum of Melbourne, which showcases the history and culture of the city; the Central Galleries, which exhibit works from some of Victoria’s leading contemporary artists; and the International Exhibitions, which display the works of various international artists and designers.
The Royal Exhibition Building is also home to the Melbourne Museum, making it the perfect destination to learn more about the city’s history. Here, you can explore the museum’s interactive exhibits, such as the First Australians exhibition, as well as the Van Gogh to Matisse display, showcasing some of the greatest artists of the 20th century from the Netherlands, France, and Germany.
If you are looking to experience the beauty and culture of Melbourne, Victoria, the Royal Exhibition Building provides a unique opportunity to do so. Whether you are looking for a leisurely day trip or a more extensive exploration of the city’s various attractions, the Royal Exhibition Building is sure to have something for everyone!
Frequently Asked Questions About Royal Exhibition Building
Q. What is the Royal Exhibition Building?
A. The Royal Exhibition Building is a historic building located in the Carlton Gardens in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. The building was designed by local architect Joseph Reed, and it was built in 1880 to host the Melbourne International Exhibition. The building is listed on the National Heritage List and is considered a symbol of Melbourne’s international significance.
Q. What events are held at the Royal Exhibition Building?
A. The Royal Exhibition Building hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including art exhibitions, festivals, concerts, and conferences. It is also used as a venue for larger-scale events such as the Sustainability Live Australian Music Festival.
Q. Are there guided tours of the Royal Exhibition Building?
A. Yes. The Royal Exhibition Building offers guided tours for visitors which provide insight into the history of the building, its design, and the events it has hosted over the last 140 years.
Q. Is there parking available at the Royal Exhibition Building?
A. Yes, there is public parking available at the Royal Exhibition Building for a fee.