Middlesex Sessions House, Former courthouse in Clerkenwell Green, London Borough of Islington, England
Description
The Middlesex Sessions House is a former courthouse in Clerkenwell Green featuring four Ionic columns supporting a pediment and a central dome modeled after Rome's Pantheon. The building showcases neoclassical design typical of its period with carefully detailed stonework and proportions.
History
The building was constructed in 1780 by architect Thomas Rogers, replacing an earlier courthouse called Hicks Hall. It served as the principal judicial center for Middlesex until the late 1880s when court functions were relocated.
Culture
The central window features a carved relief of King George III, marking the building's role as a seat of justice. It stands as a reminder of how law and authority were represented through architectural decoration.
Practical
The building now operates as a restaurant and bar, having been converted from its original legal function in recent decades. Visitors should note that the interior is primarily a dining and socializing space, so accessibility depends on whether you wish to use the restaurant services.
Did you know?
From 1931 to 1973, the former courthouse housed Avery Weighing Machines, a company that manufactured industrial scales. This unexpected use demonstrates how historic buildings can serve entirely different purposes across different periods.
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