British Columbia Parliament Buildings, Provincial government building in Victoria, Canada
The British Columbia Parliament Buildings form a government complex in Victoria, Canada, with a central dome and a gilded figure of Captain George Vancouver at its peak. The grey granite facade extends along the Inner Harbour with three connected wings arranged around an open courtyard.
Francis Rattenbury designed the structure, completed between 1893 and 1897 to replace earlier temporary facilities. The opening in 1898 ended a period when the provincial government operated from several scattered locations.
The rotunda features a mural by George Southwell depicting four periods of local settlement. A statue of Queen Victoria stands in the inner courtyard, honoring the person who gave the city its name.
Tours run on weekdays and last around 40 minutes, giving access to several public rooms. Visitors can also watch legislative sessions when parliament sits.
The structure lights up after dark with more than 3,300 bulbs outlining its shape. This tradition began in 1956 for a visit by Princess Margaret and continues every night since.
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