BC Parliament Buildings, Victoria

Located on the edge of Victoria harbour, the British Columbia Parliament Buildings in the Province's capital of Victoria, British Columbia are the city's most iconic structures and is the home of British Columbia's members of parliament. CREDIT: Venture Vancouver, SOURCE: www.venturevancouver.com

The architecturally stunning British Columbia Parliament Buildings are Victoria's most iconic structures.

STATS

HOURS

Type:

Tour

Season:

All Seasons

Weather:

All Weather

Time:

1 hour

Cost:

Free

What to bring:

Camera, Questions, Sense of Curiosity

Take the opportunity to see the Provincial government in action at the Parliament Buildings located in the Province's capital, Victoria. Completed in 1898, this iconic building designed by Francis Rattenbury is Victoria's most well known landmark. The Legislative Assembly of British Columbia offers free guided and self-guided tours inside the building as well, visitors are allowed to attend the debates and question sessions. Learn about British Columbia's government and visit this beautiful building in Victoria.

Canada's government is a powerful symbol, represented in each Provincial and Territorial capital with an iconic Parliamentary building. British Columbia's Parliament Buildings are located in the Province's capital, Victoria.

British Columbia has held Parliamentary sessions since 1856 until funds were authorized with the passage of the Parliament Buildings Construction Act in 1893. The building was designed by Francis Rattenbury, winner of an architectural contest, who combined Baroque and Romanesque Revival elements using local materials. The main copper dome is topped by a gold plated statue of Captain George Vancouver. Construction began in 1893 and was completed in 1898. At night, the buildings are lit by 3,500 energy-efficient light bulbs.

Visitors can tour the British Columbia Parliament Buildings (Legislative Assembly of British Columbia) seven days a week. From Mondays to Fridays, visitors can take a free guided tour or explore the buildings on a self guided tour (interior tour) (exterior tour) - on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays, only guided tours are available. Tours vary from 30 minutes to 60 minutes long. Visitors can also observe the debates in the Chamber when the House is sitting. No reservations are required but there is limited seating so it is recommended to arrive early.

Learn about British Columbia's government at the Parliament Buildings in Victoria. Take a guided or self-guided tour, observe a debate or just admire this beautiful building that stands as an icon of British Columbia.