City Hall stands in the heart of Cardiff. It is the centrepiece of one of the world’s finest civic centres, an area of impressive buildings, landscaped gardens and broad tree-lined avenues.
City Hall was opened in 1906, after Cardiff was given its royal charter as a city in 1905. It is built in English Renaissance style, and the exterior is carved from Portland stone.
City Hall houses an extensive art collection, including "Winter" by Joseph Farquharson. The collection is displayed for visitors to view, subject to the rooms not being hired for private functions. There is also a booklet with full details of the art collection available free from the reception desk at City Hall.
The Clock Tower of City Hall is perhaps the most distinctive architectural feature of the building, bold and asymmetrical and a well-loved Cardiff landmark.
The magnificent exterior of City Hall prepares the visitor for the decorative Edwardian interiors, where rooms both large and small are all elegantly proportioned. The portico leads into the main foyer and reception.
The appropriately named Marble Hall is lined by magnificent columns of Sienna marble mounted in bronze. Beyond the doors at its northern end lies the Assembly Room. This splendid interior has played host to Royalty, Heads of State and diplomats from all over the world on many great occasions.
Directly beneath the dome of City Hall is the Council Chamber, which has witnessed many passionate debates over the years. Today it is available for numerous other uses, including press conferences, televised debates, meetings and wedding ceremonies.
Cardiff Register Office is in City Hall.
