- Address: Government House Sydney, Macquarie Street Sydney NSW 2000;
- Phone: 02 9228 4111;
- Website: https://www.governor.nsw.gov.au/;
- Entry feature: by passport or other identity card
The Government Building (also called the Government House) in Sydney is one of the most intricate Gothic Renaissance architecture ever built in the colonies under the British crown. This is a real business card of Australia, designed by the personal architect of King William IV and reminiscent of a medieval castle. The building houses the government of New South Wales, not Australia.
A little bit about the history
The construction of this monumental building from the local sandstone began in 1836 and cost 46 thousand British pounds. After its completion in 1845 for more than 100 years, the Government building was constantly rebuilt and modernized: farm buildings such as laundry and kitchens were added, modern communications were carried out. Since 1996, construction is no longer considered a private residence of the governor, so tourists can visit fascinating excursions through the halls of the institution.
Interesting facts about the Government Building
Today, the Government House is the main residence of the head of state of New South Wales, so there are always various official receptions, lunches and state ceremonies. Here are the most important information that travelers should know when visiting this building:
- Photographing inside the building is strictly prohibited, but outside you can shoot it from any angle.
- The area of the building is not too large, so even the most detailed tour will not take much time and will not tire you: its maximum duration is about an hour.
- To view this monument of architecture is possible only from Friday to Sunday, from Monday to Thursday it is used for its direct purpose: it is going to the state government to solve urgent state affairs.
- During the tour, you will be shown a ballroom, a lounge, a dining room, where you hold receptions, the governor's office and the reception room, where the portraits of all governors hang from the time the state was founded. The interior is designed in a simple style, without pretentious luxury and many decorative elements. At the same time, the ceilings and walls are painted by hand and look like real masterpieces of fine art. Here you will find only handmade furniture.
- Excursions are held every half hour from 10.00 to 15.00. Before entering the building you need to register and take a ticket at the ticket office at the main gate. Be sure to bring your identity document: passport or driver's license. The Garden of the Government House is open from 10.00 to 16.00.
How to get there?
The Government building is located in the Royal Botanic Gardens in Sydney. The gate closest to the construction is on Macquarie Street and is to the left of the conservatory. From them you have to go very little to the Government House.
From the railway station Circular Quay to the destination, you can walk for about 10 minutes. Also from the Circular Quay and Phillip Street there go buses.
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