Capital Hill Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in May)
Parliament House Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in May)
Visit Australia's parliament in Canberra
Canberra is the capital of Australia, and as such the parliament is located here. You can visit Parliament House independently or on a tour. The building is recognizable from all over the city as it is located in the center of the city on Capitol Hill.
On your visit to the parliament you can explore the huge building and its 4500 rooms. Highlights include the house of senate and the house of representatives as well as the main foyer and the great Wall with lots of art pieces all over the building.
Parliament House is open every day except Christmas from 9 to 5 and admission is free of charge.
Address: Parliament Drive, Canberra Australian Capital Territory 2600
One of the few open parliament buildings in the world
In a corner of the world, the Parliament House in Canberra stands out for its uniqueness. It is open to the public without the need for an appointment, allowing visitors to glimpse the charm of political architecture. Whether in the East or the West, political buildings always strictly follow symmetrical designs, exuding a sense of solemnity and authority.
Upon entering the building's underground parking space, you will find that there is not much decoration. Exposed structural beams, slabs, and columns are cleverly marked by a circular design to indicate the entrance, which is both simple and practical, reflecting the ingenuity and value of the design.
The above-ground space, however, is markedly different, with the use of high-end stone, wood finishes, and other materials making the symmetrical structure even more prominent. Even the furniture inside exudes a sense of rigor, making one admire the meticulous design.
To capture the best angle of this building, I once drove 8 kilometers to the opposite mountain top. There, not only did I take satisfying photos, but I also overlooked the entire city's planning context and learned about the history of the artificial excavation of Lake Burley Griffin.
Regrettably, I was unable to visit the old Parliament House's parliamentary debate scene during this trip. But I believe that it will be an indispensable part of my next journey. In Canberra, whether it is to appreciate the beauty of architecture or to experience the city's historical and cultural heritage, one can't help but linger and forget to return.
Australia's new Parliament House.
In the Australian capital Canberra, there are two Parliament Houses, both of which are open to the public. The Old Parliament House has become a small museum showcasing the history of Australia's founding and capital building. The New Parliament House is open to the public for visits as long as there are no important meetings or events.
Parliament House Canberra
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