Occupying pride of place down Nicholson Street the Royal Exhibition Building is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site but also a popular hotspot in its own right. Frequented by travellers based in resorts, Melbourne serviced apartments and aparthotels from the Somerset on Elizabeth Melbourne to innumerable others, the iconic structure is a venue with a rich history. As one of the last surviving exhibition buildings from the 19th century the Royal Exhibition Building was also one of the first structures in the country to be declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
The Royal Exhibition Building also holds the distinct honour of being the globe’s only remaining complete building from the International Exhibition era which lasted from 1851 to 1914. Ideally located next to the Melbourne Museum the venue remains an exhibition space for many an event or cultural showcase organised by the neighbouring museum. It is said that the construction of the building started in 1879 and the structure was completed a year later. The building was constructed for the Melbourne International Exhibition which took place from 1880 to 1881 and was later used as the venue for the opening of the country’s first Parliament in 1901. Although the Royal Exhibition Building faced many refurbishments due to fire with certain areas being demolished for wear and tear over the years, the Great Gall remains as it was in its heydey.
Designed by none other than Joseph Reed, the architect who was also responsible for not only the State Library of Victoria but also the Melbourne Town Hall, the building’s dome was apparently inspired by the Florence Cathedral dome. The pavilions in the Royal Exhibition space, however, were modelled after Rundbogenstil style structure popular in Paris and Normandy at the time. Commissioned to be built by David Mitchell who is also credited with the building of St Patrick’s Cathedral the building’s fountain is also a point of attraction for visitors.
Fritzjames Stephen is a travel writer, who writes content based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life.
