The building was constructed on the site of a former market and features a statue of Queen Victoria in front of the entrance.
The Durban Art Gallery within the complex houses an extensive collection of both contemporary and traditional South African art.
The Natural Science Museum inside is one of the oldest in South Africa, established in 1887.
The intricate facade includes statues representing the arts, sciences, literature, and music.
The building's copper dome has weathered to a distinct green patina over its century of existence.
Durban City Hall is a historic Neo-Baroque civic building designed by architect Stanley G. Hudson and completed in 1910. The structure is modeled after the Belfast City Hall in Northern Ireland and serves as the seat of the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality. It features a prominent copper-domed roof and an intricate facade constructed from sandstone. The interior houses the Durban Natural Science Museum, the Durban Art Gallery, and a significant public library. The grand auditorium, known as the Main Hall, features an organ with over 6,000 pipes. It remains one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city center of Durban.
From the center of Francis Farewell Square to capture the full symmetrical facade and the copper dome.
Visit the Durban Art Gallery on the second floor for free entry to rotating contemporary exhibitions.
Spend time in the Natural Science Museum to view the life-size reconstructions of dinosaurs.
Walk around the exterior to view the detailed relief sculptures and colonial-era architecture.
Avoid exploring the surrounding downtown blocks after dark due to limited pedestrian activity.
Museums and galleries are generally closed on public holidays.
Maintain a quiet demeanor inside the museum and gallery areas; professional conduct is expected as it is an active government building.
