New York City Hall, Government building in City Hall Park, Manhattan, United States.
New York City Hall is a government building in City Hall Park, Manhattan. The two-story structure combines granite and marble with a central pavilion flanked by two wings and a wide staircase that reaches the main entrance.
Construction began in 1803 and finished in 1812, making this the oldest city hall in continuous use across the United States. Architects Joseph-François Mangin and John McComb Jr. designed the building in a blend of Renaissance and Georgian styles.
City Hall serves as the working office of the mayor and hosts the City Council chamber where local laws are debated and passed. Visitors can see the rotunda where official ceremonies take place and the room used for civil weddings.
Free guided tours require advance registration and security clearance through the official city website. Tours run on weekdays and last around 45 minutes, with bag checks at entry.
The rear facade was originally built with brownstone because planners assumed no one would ever view that side of the building. Today the back faces a park with benches and fountains, visited by locals and tourists alike.
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