Taking up an entire city block, the Queen Victoria Building is home to finest, most elegant shopping experience in Sydney. It borders George, Market, York and Druitt streets in the Central Business District (CBD) and definitely stands out amongst the modern skyscrapers. It was built between 1893 and 1898 on the location of the old Sydney markets. The purpose of the build was to provide jobs for unemployed skilled craftsmen during a recession. This mall is famous not only for shopping but also as an attraction for thousands of tourists from around the world. For those wanting to delve deeper into the history of the building, you can book one of the daily walking tours.
The large bronze statue of Queen Victoria that sits on the corner of George and Druitt streets, was sourced from Ireland and was quite controversial at the time. 
There are over 150 high fashion boutiques showcasing local and international designers, jewelry stores, cafes and restaurants spread over four floors. The basement level has a parking garage and access to the Town Hall train station.
Stained glass window above one of the entrances. 
The Royal Clock. 
The large dome with its stained glass is a focal point. The arched skylights give the feeling of being inside an atrium and the beautifully patterned tiled floors, wrought iron railings and balustrades, columns with molding all add to this architectural wonder.
There are apparently, many secret doors and passages in the Queen Victoria Building. The spiral staircase on the left (not for the public) leads to a barely noticeable small door where you can access the dome which sits within another dome. 
Photo credit: John Appleyard.
The building once housed a concert hall which was converted into a library and the commercial stores became municipal offices. In the 1950’s the building had apparently outlived its usefulness and was abandoned. It sat vacant for decades and despite its magnificence, was slated for demolition to make room for a car park. In 1982, the city council agreed to lease the property to a Malaysian firm for 99 years with an agreement that they restore the building. As part of the agreement, the city government built the underground parking lot. Some modern elements like escalators were added but the true character of the building remained.
Escalators were added to modernize the building. 
The Royal Clock is one of two large clocks that hang from the central dome. The perfectly restored stained-glass windows add an element of sophistication. 
Romanesque style columns. 
Columns with ornate detailing. 
The Australian Clock. 
Many of the original elements were restored like this patterned tile work. 
Chocolate store. 
This is the view you get as you dine at one of the cafes on the 2nd or 3rd floor. This, the Australian Clock, is one of the two large clocks the hang from the central dome. 
This building is definitely worth a trip if you’re ever in Sydney. Whether you’re shopping, dining or just strolling around, you’ll be captivated by the charm this building has to offer. We didn’t get a chance to see it in the evening, but I understand that the illumination is something special.
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