Toronto City Hall

Toronto City Hall is the seat of the city’s municipal government at 100 Queen St W, facing Nathan Phillips Square. Finnish architect Viljo Revell designed its two unequal curved towers around a circular council chamber; the building opened in 1965. Walk the plaza for different views of the architecture, the fountain and the illuminated TORONTO sign. The square also hosts public events and, in winter, an outdoor skating rink. Access to areas such as the observation deck is limited to special occasions, so check for an event if you want to see inside beyond public areas.

A city hall shaped around a circle

Toronto City Hall was designed by Finnish architect Viljo Revell, whose proposal won an international competition held in 1956. The contest drew more than 500 submissions from architects in 42 countries. The design was contentious when selected: two curved towers of different heights frame a circular council chamber. From above, the layout resembles an eye, which has led to the building’s “Eye of the Government” nickname.

The towers contain office space, with the council chamber between them. The building opened in 1965 and became a defining example of modernist architecture in Toronto. Revell died before its opening. Landscape architect Richard Strong also worked on the project, alongside Revell’s design.

Nathan Phillips Square

The square in front of City Hall is named for Nathan Phillips, the mayor who led the design competition. It gives you room to take in the building’s curved forms from different angles. The fountain and the large TORONTO sign are familiar photo subjects, and the towers look different from across the plaza than they do close to their sloping exterior paths.

The square is also a public gathering place. Art and craft fairs and other events take place there through the year. In winter, an outdoor skating rink draws people onto the plaza. Nearby streets are decorated with festive lights in December.