Parliament Building, Guyana

The Parliament Building is a two-story brick structure with a low dome, two symmetrical wings, and a portico entrance near the Demerara River in Georgetown. The top floor holds the debate chamber where government and opposition members sit across wooden tables facing each other.

Construction started in 1832 under architect Joseph Hadfield and the building officially opened in August 1834 for the British colonial legislature. It was built during a period when Georgetown was developing as an administrative center under British rule.

The chamber holds an ornate teak Speaker's chair given by India in 1966 and a coffered ceiling painted by Italian artist Cesar Castellani. These details show how the building brings together international relationships and skilled craftsmanship.

The building sits near the Demerara River and is easy to reach from Georgetown's main streets. Visitors should know that interior access may be limited depending on parliamentary activities and sessions taking place.

The building's foundation rests entirely on greenheart logs, a tropical hardwood that resists moisture and insects common in the region. Two Crimean War cannons stand near the entrance as reminders of the region's colonial past.

Location: Georgetown

Inception: April 1834

Architectural style: Renaissance Revival architecture

GPS coordinates: 6.80859,-58.16667

Latest update: December 12, 2025 07:51