A colorful rotunda
Being a government building in service of the people of British Columbia, entry is free after a 10 minute lineup to complete a security check. There are guided tours available from Monday to Friday several times a day, but entry is restricted by appointments only on the weekends. Even though parliament only has one component represented by the people (the other is the Queen) the building is symmetrical.
Hall of Honor
Constructed in the late 19th century, the parliament buildings are built to a classic (at the time) Baroque style instead of Victorian. Its use of lighter andesite for the façade instead of darker granite-like materials was bold, considering the fact that it would’ve taken a lot of effort to maintain its bright appearance with soot from gas lighting during the period. Captain George Vancouver stands proudly on top of the gilded golden dome and Queen Victoria stands approvingly in front of the building. Both Victoria and nearby Vancouver were named after these people.
Legislative chamber
The interior of the building is adorned with colourful painted murals and detailed recesses on the ceiling. The impressively bright rotunda is small but doesn’t lack character. A visitor’s gallery in the corridors detail the history of the province and the making of its legislature, including a wall that commemorates women’s contributions to lawmaking. Visitors are allowed to view the legislative chamber but aren’t allowed to step inside.
After your visit, you can visit the Dining Room for some food (closes around 3pm) and then head to the gift shop for 10% off with a Dining Room receipt.
