Victoria - Parliament Buildings

Dominating the south side of the Inner Harbour is the imposing seat of British Columbia's provincial government, the Parliament Buildings, designed by the Yorkshire architect Francis M. Rattenbury and erected in 1897. Set in neat, orderly gardens, the complex of buildings, of heavy stone construction, is very attractive in appearance, and especially so in the evening when lit by festoons of lights. Perched high above the massive dome is a gilded statue of Captain George Vancouver (1757-98) who accomplished the first circumnavigation of Vancouver Island.

Figures of famous personalities from the province embellish the façade. (Guided tours of the buildings Mon.-Fri. from 10am.) A large statue of Queen Victoria surveys the Inner Harbour from the terrace. Tours of the town center by horse-drawn carriage leave from near by.