Parliament House
At the apex of the Parliamentary Triangle is Parliament House. Parliament House was designed by the American architectural firm Mitchell Giurgola and Thorp as a result of an international design competition. Parliament House, opened on 9 May 1988, is regarded as one of Australia's most acclaimed buildings and the meeting place of our nation.
The most striking thing about Parliament House is the 81 metre high flagmast. This is one of the world's largest steel structures and is a central landmark of Canberra.
Other highlights of Parliament House include the Foyer, which features 48 marble-clad columns and two superbly crafted marble staircases. Designed to be reminiscent of a eucalyptus forest, the Foyer is a show piece for the beautiful masonry and timber used throughout the building.
The Great Hall houses one of the largest tapestries in the world, based on a work by Australian artist Arthur Boyd. Tom Roberts' painting of the opening of Parliament in 1901 graces the Main Committee Room, and works by Arthur Boyd, Fred Williams and Tim McGuire in the Foyer reflect perspectives in relation to the land. Portraits of parliamentarians are placed around the walls of the Members Hall
Visitors can experience the beautiful surrounds by taking a walk on the Parliamentary Parklands Trail or strolling through the gardens.
Uncover the mysteries of our Parliament on a free guided tour. Visit the Parliament Shop and the Queen's Terrace Café or take a leisurely stroll through the 23 hectares of gardens. View the changing exhibitions and displays and, when Parliament is sitting, watch procedures of the House of Representatives and the Senate.
Open daily (except Christmas Day) 9.00-5.00pm, later when Parliament is in session. Free admission. Phone 02 6277 5399. Capital Hill.
