Royal Exhibition Building

The Royal Exhibition Building is a historic landmark located in Carlton Gardens, Melbourne, Australia. It was built in 1879 and was the site of the first official opening of the Parliament of Australia in 1901. The building is one of the world's oldest remaining exhibition pavilions and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The building was designed by architect Joseph Reed in the Renaissance Revival style, and features a large dome, galleries, and a central hall with a glass roof. It has hosted a number of important events over the years, including the Melbourne International Exhibition in 1880–81, the Centennial International Exhibition in 1888, and the Melbourne International Centennial Exhibition in 1889. The building sits on approximately 26 hectares (64 acres), is 150 metres (490 ft) long and is surrounded by four city streets. It is at 9 Nicholson Street in the Carlton Gardens, flanked by Victoria, Carlton and Rathdowne Streets, at the north-eastern edge of the central business district. Today, the Royal Exhibition Building is used for a variety of events, including exhibitions, trade shows, cultural events, and ceremonies. It is also home to the Melbourne Museum, which features exhibits on natural history, indigenous culture, and modern Australia. Throughout the 20th century smaller sections and wings of the building were subject to demolition and fire; however, the main building, known as the Great Hall, survived. The building has undergone several renovations and restorations over the years to ensure its preservation. It remains a significant cultural and architectural icon in Melbourne, attracting visitors from around the world.