Toronto's most famous landmark is enticing to visitors and residents alike. Refreshingly out of place in a city known for its rectangular buildings, New City Hall resembles a monumental sculpture from outer space. Two tall semicircular office towers of unequal height embrace a flying saucer shaped council chamber balanced on a two-story podium. Integral to the design is a sweeping square in front that surrounds a reflecting pool.
In 1965, Toronto's Mayor Nathan Phillips encouraged a competition to design a new city hall. After 520 submissions from 42 countries, Finnish architect Viljo Revell won the competition. Although Revell's design shook up Toronto in the early 1960s, he was able to incorporate into city hall the concept of citizens participating in the role of government. Above the main entrance are the windows of the offices of the metro chairman and mayor. Take the East Staircase to the corridor heading to the Councilors' offices. An elevator then leads to the domed Council Chamber, where the public gallery resembles a participatory amphitheatre.
Inside the building are numerous distinct artworks. In the main foyer, 100,000 nails form the mural titled 'Metropolis,' created by a local artist. 'Views to the City,' an enormous copper and glass mosaic brings the city skyline to life.
Outdoors, the reflecting pool is the ideal spot to enjoy a picnic lunch or an invigorating skate when it floods and freezes in winter. The inviting yet formal square proudly hosts multicultural festivals, art shows and civic ceremonies.
The 1984 Peace Garden to the right of the square exudes an Oriental serenity in the midst of a bustling, vibrant city. Pope John Paul II lit the eternal flame with an ember from Hiroshima's Memorial for Peace. And don't miss Henry Moore's sculpture 'The Archer' near the entrance. Without a doubt, Torontonians are proud of their accessible, striking and dignified City Hall.
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