Parliament House

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Have you ever heard of a Parliament House that was never finished? Right before your eyes stands Parliament House, an iconic landmark in the heart of Melbourne. This grand neoclassical structure has been home to the Parliament of Victoria since it first opened in 1856. The construction of Parliament House was no easy feat. It was to be built in stages due to its immense size and cost. The first stage, consisting of the chambers for the Legislative Assembly and the Legislative Council, was completed in a record time of one year! Over the years, sections like the Library, the eastern wing and the grand Queen’s Hall were added. Interestingly, despite its grandeur and historical significance, Parliament House was never truly completed. The original design, a masterpiece conceived by architect Peter Kerr, featured a magnificent dome. Sadly, due to economic constraints and other factors, this dome was never built. For years, the absence of the dome has been a source of much debate and discussion. Some believe it should be built to honor the original vision, while others argue that the building is perfect as it is. What do you think? Should they finish what they started all those years ago?

The story of Parliament House in Melbourne is only a glimpse of what you can experience. Explory transforms your trip with a smart Melbourne guide that reveals culture and history. Using our Melbourne city guide, you can discover highlights and enjoy a personal Melbourne city tour designed to match your pace. Explory connects you with the essence of Melbourne. The Melbourne guide combines navigation with storytelling, leading you to landmarks and Melbourne hidden gems. Through the Melbourne audio guide, you hear fascinating stories while moving through the city. Our Melbourne city guide is more than a tool – it’s a companion for real Melbourne exploration. Every Melbourne city tour blends stories, culture, and atmosphere into an adventure. With emphasis on unique Melbourne hidden gems and authentic Melbourne exploration, Explory offers a richer way to travel. Get the Explory App today and unlock a world of discovery: more than 300 cities and 500,000 POIs and stories at your fingertips. Whether you’re looking for a Melbourne guide, a detailed Melbourne audio guide, or a flexible Melbourne city tour, Explory is your ultimate travel companion.

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