Old City Hall, Toronto

Nestled in the heart of Toronto, the Old City Hall stands as a testament to the city's historical richness and architectural grandeur. Built between 1889 and 1899, this Romanesque Revival building was once the epicenter of municipal politics and is now one of the city's most prominent landmarks. Its distinctive clock tower, which soars to a height of 104 meters, is a defining feature of the Toronto skyline.

Designed by architect E.J. Lennox, Old City Hall was constructed with intricate sandstone carvings and gargoyles, showcasing the opulence of its era. The clock tower, in particular, is a marvel of its time, housing a clock that was once the largest in North America. The four clock faces, each measuring 3.5 meters in diameter, have kept time for the city for over a century.

Though it no longer serves as the seat of the city's municipal government—having been succeeded by the New City Hall in 1966—Old City Hall has not lost its luster or significance. It currently functions as a courthouse for the Ontario Court of Justice, ensuring that the edifice remains a place of local importance.

The building's architecture attracts tourists and locals alike, who come to admire the craftsmanship and the historical essence that it captures. While the interiors are generally not open for public tours due to its judicial operations, the exterior provides ample opportunity for visitors to witness the beauty of Old City Hall's design and its iconic tower.