The Alberta Legislature Building, a prominent landmark in Edmonton, Alberta, was constructed between 1907 and 1913.
This Beaux-Arts style building not only serves as the meeting place for the Legislative Assembly of Alberta and the Executive Council of Alberta but also stands as a symbol of the province’s legislative and governmental history.
When Was the Alberta Legislature Built?
The Alberta Legislature Building’s construction began in 1907 and was completed in 1913.
Designed by architects Allan Merrick Jeffers and Richard Blakey, the building was constructed at a cost of $2 million, which is approximately $47.5 million in 2021 dollars.
The Construction of the Alberta Legislature Building
Historical Context and Architectural Significance
The Alberta Legislature Building was designed in the Beaux-Arts style, a popular architectural style for North American public buildings in the early 20th century.
The choice of this style reflects the government’s aspirations for Alberta, symbolizing dignity, order, and stability.
The Building’s Features and Design
The building is notable for its impressive dome, intricate stone work, and the commanding view it offers of the North Saskatchewan River valley.
It was built to accommodate the growing needs of the provincial government and to serve as a symbol of Alberta’s political and cultural maturity.
FAQs: The Alberta Legislature Building
- Who were the architects of the Alberta Legislature Building?
- Allan Merrick Jeffers and Richard Blakey were the principal architects, with Montreal architect Percy Nobbs assisting with the final revisions.
- How much did it cost to build the Alberta Legislature Building?
- The construction cost was $2 million in 1907, equivalent to about $47.5 million today.
- What architectural style is the Alberta Legislature Building?
- It is designed in the Beaux-Arts style, characterized by its grandeur and elaborate detailing.
The Alberta Legislature Building is more than just a place where laws are made; it is a historical monument that represents the spirit and ambition of Alberta.
Its construction marked a significant period in Alberta’s development, laying the foundation for a century of governance and public service.
In Summary
- The Alberta Legislature Building was constructed between 1907 and 1913.
- Designed in the Beaux-Arts style, it symbolizes Alberta’s legislative and cultural aspirations.
- The building is a key historical and architectural landmark in Edmonton, reflecting the province’s growth and development.
