Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton Gardens

The Royal Exhibition Building is a large exhibition complex in Melbourne featuring a central dome modeled after the Florence Cathedral and grand interior spaces. The structure sits within Carlton Gardens and regularly hosts diverse exhibitions, festivals, and public gatherings throughout the year.

The building was completed in 1880 and originally hosted the Melbourne International Exhibition, a major event that put the city on the world stage. It became the first Australian building to achieve UNESCO World Heritage status in 2004.

The Great Hall displays ornate murals and an inscription welcoming all nations, which reflects how the building once brought people together from around the world for shared learning.

The building is easily accessible on foot and surrounded by public gardens that invite you to walk around. Guided tours and various events are offered throughout the year, so any season is good for a visit.

The Dome Promenade reopened in 2022 after being closed for nearly a century, giving visitors an elevated view across Melbourne from within the dome itself. From this spot, you can see the city layout and distant neighborhoods in a way few people experience.

Location: Melbourne

GPS coordinates: -37.80611,144.97028

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:48