Central Business District - Part II

Alex and I headed back to the Central Business District (CBD) on Monday to continue our sightseeing in this area.  We woke up to a sudden rainstorm, but thankfully, it didn't last long and shortly after we jumped on the train and headed back into the city center.  

Our first stop was to Parliament House as they offer free public tours during the day.  The tour provided information about Parliament and we were able to walk through the chambers and learn the history about the building and Melbourne politics.  

We also visited St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the largest church building in Australia.  Building began in 1858 and didn't finish until the spires were added in 1939.  The church has huge ceilings and each column was adorned with a beautiful Christmas wreath.  The organ is composed of 4500 pipes.  

Down the street is The State Library, home to over two million books.  The library was officially opened in 1913 and at the time of completion, it was the largest building of its kind in the world.  The design of the building was inspired by the British Museum in London.  My favorite room was the Reading Room with its multiple levels and beautiful skylight dome.  

We finished our day at St. Paul's Cathedral which was built in 1880.  The church was the design of architect William Butterfield who refused to visit Melbourne and instead sent his drawings and plans from England.

We grabbed lunch at Chin Chin, a Thai restaurant serving some delicious food.  Highlights included pork "roll-ups" and yellow curry with pumpkin and pickled cucumber.  

Melbourne is known for its street art and there are several blocks in the CBD where the side streets are covered in colorful graffiti and artwork.