Old City Hall, Toronto

Located at the intersection of Queen and Bay Streets in Downtown Toronto stands an impressive building with Romanesque-style architecture. This remarkable structure, known today as the Old City Hall, served as the Toronto City Council's home from 1899 to 1966, becoming the third city hall constructed for the flourishing city. Upon its completion, it ranked among the largest buildings in Toronto and stood as the largest civic edifice in North America.

Renowned architect Edward James Lennox led the creation of this masterpiece. Over a decade of construction, the majestic City Hall emerged as an iconic landmark. Its remarkable clock tower, standing at 103.6 meters (340 feet), became the city's crown jewel. The clock mechanism was crafted in Croydon, England. Inside the clock room, three bells were placed: two smaller ones that chimed every quarter hour, and a bourdon bell weighing 5,443 kilograms, which tolled every hour.

Matching the splendid exterior, the interior of the building exuded charm, adorned with intricate details. Noteworthy features include a grand staircase adorned with stained glass windows depicting Canadian history, various murals, statues, and other decorative elements.

Despite its grandeur, the Old City Hall proved inadequate for Toronto's expanding municipal government within a few decades of its construction. In the 1960s, plans were made to demolish the building and make way for a retail complex known as the Eaton Centre. However, thanks to public outcry, the Old City Hall was saved and repurposed as a courthouse. In 1984, it received the prestigious designation as a National Historic Site, preserving its historical significance for future generations.

Tip:
Make sure to visit the small "lake" close by, as many of the pictures from Toronto you might know are taken from this place while facing the "TORONTO" sign.