Fronted by sequoia-sized Corinthian columns, Australia’s largest city hall was built between 1920 and 1930 – the second-largest construction project of its time beside the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Check out the grand foyer with mosaic tiles and marble staircases and take in 1st-floor views of the ostentatious auditorium. Interestingly, the marble in the foyer was sourced from the same Tuscan quarry as that used by Michelangelo to sculpt his David.
Book in advance (online or by phone) for free 45-minute heritage tours of the sandstone behemoth; they can be available on the day from the excellent on-site Museum of Brisbane, however, so always consider checking. Also book online for free 15-minute tours of the 85m-high clock tower.