Overview:

: The Parliament Buildings in Victoria, British Columbia are the legislative centre of the province and the home of the British Columbia Legislative Assembly. Located in downtown Victoria, the buildings are in a Neo-Baroque style of architecture featuring distinctive copper-clad dome roofs. The buildings house the legislative chamber, offices, committee rooms, and the legislative library. The whole site is surrounded by the BC Legislature Gardens and is open to the public year-round. Guided tours are available so visitors can learn about the significance of the legislative process and its history in this westernmost province. The site also houses the Legislative Assembly Gift Shop for souvenirs. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Canada
Prominent Features:

, one of the most iconic and recognizable landmark is the Parliament Buildings in Victoria, British Columbia. Located on the inner harbor of Victoria, these three distinctively colored buildings are the seat of the government of Canada for the western Canadian province of British Columbia. The Parliament Buildings are known for their red, green, and yellow façades, which echo the colors of the Canadian flag. The Parliament Buildings were built in the late 19th century and underwent several restorations over the years, including those after the fire of 1957 that largely destroyed the main structure. The main building is the center of provincial government operations and houses both the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia and the offices of the Premier and cabinet ministers. The other two smaller buildings on the south side of the main building are used for hosting official events in the province, as well as for housing foreign dignitaries and other official guests while in Victoria. The gardens that surround the Parliament Buildings are a stunning feature as well. Known as the Inner Harbour Gardens, these gardens are designed in the Victorian style, representing the contrasting lushness of temperate British Columbia. Trees, statues, magnolias, and fountains create an oasis among the city backdrop. Visitors to the Parliament Buildings often take the time to stroll through the gardens, which have become a popular destination for both citizens and tourists alike. This national monument of Canada portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

Victoria, British Columbia is the oldest city in the Pacific Northwest area and has a long and fascinating history. Historic sites, such as the Parliament Buildings, are integral to this legacy. The first Parliament Buildings in Victoria were constructed in the mid-1800s when the city was first founded and served as the seat of the local and regional government. Constructed adjacent to the bustling city waterfront, the original Parliament Buildings were a grand and ornate, multi-winged structure designed by noted Scottish architect Richard Armstrong. In the late 1800s, the original building was demolished and replaced with a more contemporary version which was designed by architect Francis Rattenbury. The new Parliament Buildings featured an Italian-style renaissance building with a classical appearance and soaring green dome. The buildings kept their original purpose and hosted the new Vancouver Island government until it was replaced by the government of British Columbia, unified as a province, in 1871. Afterward, the buildings continued to play an integral role in British Columbia's history. For over a century, the Parliament Buildings continued to be the center of government in British Columbia. In 1911, the Parliament Buildings were damaged by fire and underwent significant renovations. The impressive Queen's Hall was added in 1915 and today serves as a beautiful, ornate hall and meeting space for both the public and government representatives. Today, the Parliament Buildings hold a prominent place amongst Victoria's landmarks and remain the center of provincial government. Its façade often decorates postcards, and Parliament Square remains a popular gathering spot for townspeople and tourists alike. The Parliament Buildings remain an important reminder of the history and heritage of Victoria, British Columbia and the entire region. Its symbolism and unique architectural style remind onlookers of the importance of the local government and how it has shaped and influenced this beautiful province. You must visit one of these historical places in Canada on your Canada tour

Interesting facts:

1. The Parliament Buildings in Victoria, British Columbia are one of the oldest legislative buildings still in use in North America, with construction beginning in 1892. 2. The site was chosen by Queen Victoria and is considered the symbolic birthplace of democracy in Canada as the first parliamentary session was held here in 1898. 3. The impressive copper-stone building is in the Gothic Revival style with its ornate clock tower standing at 99 feet and looking out over the harbor. 4. The clock is known as ‘Big Ben of the Pacific’ and was made in London England. 5. Inside the building are over 200 stained glass windows, 3,500 photographs and 5,000 books which tell the story of the people who have shaped the province since it became a country in 1871. 6. The buildings are the home of the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia which includes the 87 members of the Provincial Legislature who debate and pass laws. 7. The Parliament Buildings are situated in the heart of downtown Victoria, next to the beautiful Inner harbor. 8. The Parliament Buildings are open to the public for guided tours, several times a day, for free. Visit one of the famous monuments of Canada with your friends and family.