The Queen Victoria Building (QVB) houses a grand shopping centre. Measuring around 190 metres long by 30 metres wide, it fills an entire city block and has over 150 shops, boutiques, cafes and restaurants on four levels.
It was designed by George McRae and completed in 1898, replacing the original Sydney markets on the site. The elaborate Romanesque architecture was specially planned to employ a great number of skilled craftsmen who were out of work due to a severe recession. Originally, a concert hall, coffee shops, offices, showrooms, warehouses and a wide variety of tradespeople, such as tailors, mercers, hairdressers and florists, were accommodated. Over time changes were made to the buildings function to accommodate the cities evolving needs: the concert hall became a municipal library and offices for Sydney City Council.
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In the 1950s it had become dilapidated and was threatend with demolition. However, it was refurbished and reopened as a plush shopping gallery in 1980s.
The dominant feature of the QVB is the centre dome, consisting of an inner glass dome and an exterior copper- sheathed dome. Glorious stained glass windows and splendid
architecture endure throughout the building and an original 19th century staircase sits alongside the dome. Every detail has been faithfully restored.
The building has two large mechanical clocks, The Royal Clock, designed by Neil Glasser in 1982, shows scenes of English royalty from King John signing the Magna Carta to the execution of King Charles I - the head of the king is rolled off the chopping block every business hour! The Great Australian Clock, designed and made by Chris Cook, includes 33 scenes from Australian history seen from both Aboriginal and European perspectives.
Outside the QVB, on Town Hall Place, facing The Town Hall are the Royal Wishing Well and Queen Victoria's statue.
The Queen Victoria Building has been described by fashion designer, Pierre Cardin as "the most beautiful shopping centre in the world", and I have to say I think I agree!
You can take a guided tour of the building and provided with historical facts and figures. Tours run daily and leave from the Concierge Desks.
Trading Hours
Monday: 9am - 6pm
Tuesday: 9am - 6pm
Wednesday: 9am - 6pm
Thursday: 9am - 9pm
Friday: 9am - 6pm
Saturday: 9am - 6pm
Sunday and public holidays: I I am - 5pm
Location
455 George Street (Next to Town Hall)
How to Get There
Cityrail - Town Hall Station
External Links
QVB Official Web site
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