Legislature Building | Edmonton

The Legislature Building in Edmonton, Alberta, is a significant landmark and a central point of governance in the province. It serves as the home of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta and is one of the most important and iconic buildings in the city. The structure is not only a place where laws are made but also a symbol of Alberta's history, democracy, and political heritage.

Overview of the Alberta Legislature Building

Location: The Alberta Legislature Building is situated on the north bank of the North Saskatchewan River, just to the south of downtown Edmonton. It is set within Legislature Grounds, a beautifully landscaped park that includes gardens, fountains, and monuments, making the area both a historical and a recreational space.

Historical Significance:

The Legislature Building was opened in 1913, though the idea for a provincial legislative building was proposed as early as the 1905 establishment of Alberta as a province.

The Alberta Legislature Building is one of the finest examples of Classical Revival architecture in Alberta, showcasing design elements influenced by ancient Greek and Roman styles. This reflects the democratic traditions of the past and the province's desire to have a grand, representative seat of government.

Architectural Features and Design

Classical Revival Architecture:

The Legislature Building is a three-story structure, primarily made of sandstone, with a grand dome at its center. The design features large, imposing columns at the entrance and symmetrical, formal architectural detailing that conveys power and authority.

The building’s exterior is characterized by its neoclassical style, and its construction took inspiration from grand government buildings in other parts of the world, particularly those in the United States and Europe.

The Dome:

A striking feature of the Legislature Building is its dome, which stands as a prominent symbol of Alberta's governance. The dome is 53 meters (175 feet) tall and provides visitors with a visual connection to the building’s role in the province's political landscape.

Inside, visitors can look up at the decorative ceiling with ornate carvings and windows, which add to the grandeur and historical significance of the building.

The Entrance Hall:

Upon entering the building, visitors are greeted by an impressive marble-lined hall. The foyer is richly decorated with mosaic tiles, statues, and frescoes that reflect the heritage of Alberta and Canada.

The grand staircase leads up to the legislative chambers, adding a sense of formality and importance to the building.

The Chamber of the Legislative Assembly:

The Legislative Assembly Chamber is where the province’s elected representatives gather to debate laws, pass legislation, and discuss important political issues. The room itself is ornately decorated, with wood paneling, leather seats, and a large gallery for the public to observe proceedings.

The Speaker's Chair sits in the center of the chamber, and a large, decorative provincial seal hangs on the wall behind it.

The Rotunda:

The rotunda is the circular space beneath the dome, and it is often described as the heart of the Legislature Building. The rotunda is filled with light from the dome and offers impressive views of the surrounding grounds.

In the rotunda, you can also see important artwork and statues that celebrate Alberta's history and important figures.

Legislature Grounds:

The Legislature Grounds surrounding the building feature beautifully landscaped gardens, fountains, and sculptures that add to the building's majestic presence. The front lawn is a popular spot for gatherings, events, and public protests.

During the warmer months, the grounds are filled with flowerbeds and water features that enhance the beauty of the area.

The Edmonton River Valley provides a scenic backdrop for the Legislature, making it an even more picturesque setting.

The Centennial Flame:

On the grounds in front of the Legislature Building stands the Centennial Flame, which was lit in 1967 to mark the 100th anniversary of Canadian Confederation. The flame symbolizes the Canadian values of democracy and freedom and remains a focal point for visitors.

Public Access and Tours

The Legislature Building is open to the public, and visitors can explore both the building and its surrounding grounds year-round. There are guided tours available that provide information on the architecture, history, and political function of the building. These tours are free of charge and often include visits to the Legislative Assembly Chamber, the Rotunda, and other key areas of the building.

The Legislature grounds are also open to the public, with free access to stroll through the gardens and enjoy the surrounding scenery.

Public galleries in the Legislative Assembly Chamber allow visitors to observe debates and see the functioning of the government in action, which is an excellent way to witness Alberta’s political process up close.

Functions and Role of the Legislature Building

Government Seat: The Legislature Building houses the Legislative Assembly of Alberta, where the elected Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) meet to debate and pass laws. It is the focal point of Alberta’s provincial government.

Ceremonial Role: The building is also used for ceremonial occasions, such as the swearing-in of new premiers, the opening of the legislature each year, and other significant state functions.

The Lieutenant Governor's Role: The Lieutenant Governor of Alberta, who represents the Crown in Alberta, also performs important ceremonial functions at the Legislature. The Lieutenant Governor's office is located within the building, and the throne speech is delivered here at the opening of each legislative session.

Special Events and Festivals

Canada Day Celebrations: On July 1st, the Legislature Grounds are a popular location for public celebrations of Canada Day, featuring fireworks, entertainment, and various community events.

Festival of Lights: During the winter season, the Legislature Building and its grounds are illuminated for the Festival of Lights, an event that adds festive charm and warmth to the building’s stately appearance.

Public Demonstrations: The grounds also host public gatherings and demonstrations on political issues. The park is an important venue for freedom of expression, with peaceful protests taking place on the lawns.

Visitor Information

Hours of Operation: The Legislature Building is open to the public year-round, typically during regular business hours. The Legislature Grounds are open 24/7, but some areas of the building may be closed during official events or when the Legislature is in session.

Accessibility: The Legislature Building is fully accessible to people with disabilities, including wheelchair access and elevators. The grounds are also accessible, with pathways for walking and biking.

Location: It is located at 10800 97 Avenue NW, in Edmonton, Alberta. It is easily reachable from downtown and offers plenty of parking options for visitors.

Conclusion

The Alberta Legislature Building is not only an essential center of governance for the province of Alberta but also an architectural and historical treasure. With its grand design, rich history, and beautiful surroundings, it stands as a symbol of Alberta’s political heritage and a must-visit destination for those interested in the province's history, politics, and culture. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a political observer, or simply someone looking to explore an iconic part of Edmonton, the Legislature Building offers a remarkable experience.