Royal Exhibition Building in Melbourne, AU

Royal Exhibition Building in Melbourne Australia now glows in its revival as an exhibition and trade show hall as well as a heritage structure. Set amidst the beautiful Carlton Gardens, the Royal Exhibition Building sits basking in its position as one of the last remaining examples of its type of architecture. It is also the first European structure to be declared a UNESCO World Heritage Building. This remarkable structure is very much alive and functioning. The architect was Australian Joseph Reed. The actual construction work was by David Mitchell. The building is a mélange of different elements, Byzantine, Lombardic Romanesque, and Italian Renaissance. Admire the central dome as it rises high above the structure providing a show case for the opulent interiors. It is a testament to the glory of Melbourne's past and its cultural heritage.
The Royal Exhibition Building began life as the Exhibition Building. Construction began in 1879 and finished in 1280. This was just in time to host its primary event — the Melbourne International Exhibition. In fact this display of industrial products by 30 different nations was the reason for the building of the structure. It continued to fulfill this purpose in 1888 with the hosting of the Melbourne Centennial Exhibition. Its next significant event, however, was as the host to the opening of parliament by the Duke of Cornwall and York in May 1901. It then became a venue for the 1956 Summer Olympics. However, after this, it began to be taken apart, dismantled in the 1960s rage for newer and sterile architecture. This was halted by concerned preservationists. They managed to reverse the deterioration after a visit by Queen Elizabeth made the building "Royal" in 1984. Gradually, the newer annexes were removed and the central portion restored to its former glory. Today, you can see the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show or the Victorian Hot Rod Show in the confines of this beautiful example of Victorian eclectic architecture.