Red Brick Beauty

I've been living in Pietermaritzburg for about 4 months and one building I just can't stop admiring is the city hall. I can't help but look at it every time I walk or drive pass. And rightfully so, the city hall is remnant of a very interesting history of South Africa and the city itself.

The City Hall is the largest red-bricked building in the Southern Hemisphere (google confirms that it still has that title). The original red-brick building was destroyed by fire in 1895 but was rebuilt in 1901 using the same style of brick. I've only ever been inside the hall once. 

One side of the City Hall.  The largest red-brick building in the Southern Hemisphere. 

The building itself is absolutely beautiful. The city hall organ is also one of the largest pipe organs in the Southern Hemisphere. The building was declared a national landmark in 1969. The regal city hall in all its glory, is a constant reminder of our Victorian past with its prominent 47m high  bell tower which rings every hour, on the hour. 

I haven't explored much of the inside but certainly from the outside I can admire its beauty and the high level of craftsmanship that went into its construction.

The west-side of the hall. 

The building looks its best when the sun is setting and all the lights are on. It gives it an amazing glow. 

Located at the intersection of two very busy streets. 

As with most city halls, the hall is used for all sorts of events. The KZN Philharmonic Orchestra also makes regular visits to the hall and you can hear the sound of violins and harps through the hallways.