Brisbane Historic Buildings

Anzac Square
From Ann Street there is a fine view across the Anzac Square War Memorial to the Post Office standing imposingly on the other side of Post Office Square. In Anzac Square itself are various sculptures, and, most importantly, the Shrine of Remembrance. In the tunnel which leads from Anzac Square to Central Station is the World War II Shrine of Memories. Between Ann and Adelaide streets.

City Hall
Built in 1930, this sandstone building is situated in King George Square. Highlights are the marble staircase and gothic light fittings. An old fashioned elevator will take you to the bell tower, the bells chime every 15 minutes and can be deafening if you are inside the tower at midday. King George Square, Anne and Adelaide streets, City (07 3403 8888).

Fort Lytton
A nineteenth century fortress with embankments and water filled moat. Lytton, Brisbane.

Newstead House
The U.S. Army occupied this historical house during World War II, and it is Brisbane's oldest surviving home. Built in 1846 it has been restored to it's Victorian splendour. Breakfast Creek Road, Newstead (07 3216 1846).

Old Government House
Old Government House, in George Street, is now used by the National Trust. This elegant building was the home of the Governor for the first half century of the existence of Queensland. 2 George street, City (07 3138 4463).

Parliament House
Parliament House is located in George Street, with free guided tours available. This building was constructed in 1868, and is the home of Australia's only single-house parliament. Corner Alice and George Streets, City (07 3406 7562).

St John's Cathedral
An Anglican Cathedral built in the 19th century Gothic - Revival style and designed in 1888 by John Loughborough.

St Stephen's Cathedral
This fine Catholic cathedral is in Elizabeth Street near the rear of the Post Office. The foundation stone of the first church here was laid in 1848 and the building opened in 1850. It became a cathedral in 1859. This is now St. Stephen's Chapel, and it is the oldest church in Queensland. The present cathedral building dates from 1874, in part, but it has been added to several times since then. There is a good collection of 19th Century stained glass windows from Europe. 249 Elizabeth Street, City (07 3336 9111).

Story Bridge
Just near Chinatown is Story Bridge, from which there is a magnificent view of the river and city, by day or by night. The bridge itself is one to admire too. The unexpected height of the structure above the water below is breathtaking.