Historic Building sights in Melbourne
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A
Old Melbourne Gaol
This forbidding monument to 19th-century justice is now a museum. It was built of bluestone in 1841, and was a prison until 1929. The tiny, bleak cells display plaster casts of some of the 130-plus people who were hanged here, a chilling 'by-product' of the era's obsession with phrenology. The last sound that legendary bushranger Ned Kelly heard was the clang of the trap here in 1880. His death mask, armour and history are on display. Book through Ticketekto join a Ghost Seekers Tour or go on the Hangman's Night Tour. Evening events are not recommended for children under 12.
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B
Young & Jackson's
Across the street from Flinders Street Station is a pub known for more than beer (which it's been serving up since 1861); it's known for its painting of pre-pubescent Chloe. Painted by Jules Joseph Lefebvre, her yearning gaze, cast over her shoulder and out of the frame, was a hit at the Paris Salon of 1875. The painting caused an outcry in the pursed-lipped provincial Melbourne, however, and was removed from display at the National Gallery of Victoria. Eventually bought by publican and 'art lover' Henry Figsby Young in 1909, Chloe found an appreciative audience and permanent home at this pub.
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C
Royal Arcade
This Parisian-style arcade was built between 1869 and 1870 and is Melbourne's oldest; the upper walls retain much of the original 19th-century detail. The black-and-white chequered path leads to the mythological figures of giant brothers Gog and Magog, perched with hammers atop the arched exit to Little Collins St.
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D
Parliament House
The grand steps of Victoria's parliament (c 1856) are often dotted with slow-moving tulle-wearing brides smiling for the camera or placard-holding protesters doing the same. Inside, the exuberant use of ornamental plasterwork, stencilling and gilt are full of gold-rush-era pride and optimism. Though they've never been used, gun slits are visible just below the roof, and a dungeon is now the cleaners' tearoom.
Free half-hour toursare held when parliament is in recess.
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