Alberta Legislature Grounds: A Walk through History and Beauty 🍁🏛️
In the heart of Edmonton, the Alberta Legislature Grounds stand as a testament to the province's rich history and heritage, a place where architecture, nature, and culture converge. Enclosed by pristine parklands, this monumental building is much more than just the political hub of Alberta. It's a place where history whispers from every corner, where stories unfold, and where Canadian democracy is alive and palpable. 🇨🇦💼
Historical Roots 🕰️
The Alberta Legislature Building, an architectural marvel, was inaugurated on September 3, 1912, marking a pivotal point in the province's history. A competition held in 1907 invited architects worldwide to submit their designs, with the American firm of Allan Merrick Jeffers and Richard Blakey winning this prestigious honour. The resulting design is an exquisite Beaux-Arts structure, with a dome that captures the spirit of democratic transparency and an imposing marble interior depicting the aura of unyielding strength. 🏛️🖌️
Renovations: Retaining the Old, Embracing the New 🔄
Over the years, the Legislature Building has seen several renovations to maintain its structural integrity and historical relevance while adapting to the needs of the present. The most extensive restoration project took place from 1990 to 1992, which meticulously preserved its iconic dome and repurposed its original design elements.
The efforts to maintain the building's authenticity while incorporating modern features were commendable, blending the old and new seamlessly. Today, the Legislature Grounds are fitted with advanced audiovisual technology, enhancing the educational and engagement aspects of the visitor experience. At the same time, these facilities remain respectful to the building's historic essence, creating a captivating mix of past and present. 🛠️🔄
A Living Emblem of Alberta 🌾
The Legislature Grounds represent more than just political decision-making; they symbolize the spirit of Alberta. Enclosed by manicured gardens, monuments, fountains, and trees, the Grounds offer a haven for locals and tourists alike, inviting them to picnic, play, or merely enjoy a peaceful stroll. The picturesque setting often serves as a backdrop for festivals and concerts, underlining the site's cultural significance. 🎼🌳
Moreover, the Legislature Grounds honour Albertans' contributions with various monuments, from commemorating war heroes to celebrating athletes. One of the latest additions, the "Alberta Bravery Recognition Memorial," honours individuals who have performed acts of courage in the face of danger.
For anyone visiting Alberta, a trip to the Legislature Grounds offers a unique blend of beauty, culture, and history. It provides a platform to understand the province's historical roots, celebrate its accomplishments, and appreciate the democratic principles it holds dear. It's not just a walk in a park; it's a journey through time. 🕰️🌹
Visit the Alberta Legislature Grounds to see a living canvas of Alberta's history, embrace its charm, and become a part of its evolving...
Read moreI tried to go for a walk here, tired of my lockdown due to wildfire smoke ruining my long weekend. It's my pleasure to know the government has saved so much money by cutting firefighting crews AND forest management activities, giving us this excellent appetizer to the apocalypse. As I passed by the eternal flame on the south side of the grounds, I heard an unearthly wailing. The sky grew darker and more red, until I was only illuminated by the sickly, ticking light of the flame.
"Who is out there?" I yelled through my half-face respirator (so it probably sounded like "ggbbt iffffgoitdgrrr"). A crawling, oily mass dragged itself from the edge of the flame's light. It lurched forward and fell with a wet plop. "Ken... ney" it spoke in a hundred voices from unseen mouths.
"Former Alberta Premier Jason Kenney? Is that really you?" I mumbled, aghast. The form rose on two spindly, cloven legs and wailed again. I fell to my knees.
"It's... over..." the figure said. I tried to crawl backwards away, but I was exerting myself too much for my mask and my vision began to fade. I focused on the flames of the pillar as they morphed, showing unelected Premier Danielle Smith laughing, presiding over a lake of fire. Her royal court comprised of a million bowl-cut wearing white imps sparing, pooping, stabbing, crying.
It was too much. I passed out. When I came to, it turns out I passed out from wildfire smoke inhalation and never actually even made it to my car, where the neighbors found me. I am shaken by what I have seen and will never sleep without the fear of that figure again emerging from the shadows...
Read moreIf I could I would rate this no stars. I was visiting from out of town and had a terrible encounter with a sheriff. I was riding my scooter and rang my bell to inform a man with a dog that I am passing him. Where i come from people appreciate you ringing your bell and pedestrians share the sidewalk with bikes and scooters . Apparently me ringing my bell triggered a sheriff to start yelling at me. He yelled that the pedestrian had the right off way. I stopped and apologized to the sheriff that I didn’t realize I has done something wrong. The sheriff continued to yell at me so I said he could talk to me and not be so rude. He proceeded to yell that this is a side….WALK and then yells it again. He then yells to not ride my scooter by the fountain while making fun of me to the man walking his dog. I proceed on the road because in Edmonton you are considered a car according to the sheriff. I then dismount at the fountain and see 20 to 30 people riding scooters and bikes and people with dogs off leash. Then the same sheriff arrives and he didn’t yell at any of them or treat them condescendingly. He didn’t laugh at them or talk in a derogatory tone to them. First time ever dealing with a sheriff and I am 60 years old. Very disappointing that the rules were not enforced consistently and that the sheriff was not professional terrible representation for our Legislative grounds. To note the Superintendant of Sheriff’s contacted me and apologize for his rude Sheriff but never an apology from the...
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