Toronto's Old City Hall: A Romanesque Gem in the Skyscraper Jungle 🏛️
Unlike London, Toronto doesn’t boast a wealth of ancient architecture—which makes Old City Hall a jaw-dropping anomaly! 🤯🏙️ Nestled at Queen St West & Bay St, this 1899-1965 municipal HQ stands out like a time-traveling rebel amid modern towers. Architectural Marvel 🎨: Designed by: Edward James Lennox (1854–1933), Toronto’s star architect! 🌟👨🎨 Style: Romanesque Revival—think chunky arches, rusticated stone, and drama! 🏛️🔥 Construction: Took over a decade to build, with every detail carved from colored stone—inside and out! 🧱🖌️ Clock Tower Tales ⏰: Height: 103.6m (340 ft) of gothic grandeur! 📏🗼 Made in Britain: The clock was crafted by Gillett & Johnston in Croydon, England! 🇬🇧⚒️ Gargoyles: Four stone gargoyles perch on the tower—spooky cuties! 👹💎 Record Holder: Canada’s tallest building from 1899–1917! 🏆📈 Legacy 📜: National Historic Site: Declared in 1984! 🇨🇦🏅 Modern Use: Still hosts courts and civic events—old meets new! 👩⚖️💼 Pro Tip 📸: Snap a pic with the gargoyles! They’re Insta-famous. 👹🤳 “Ever seen a gargoyle IRL? 👇 Tag your fave historic building!” #TorontoArchitecture #OldCityHall #TimeTravelVibes 🏛️🕰️