The Parliament Buildings can be best understood in relation to their exterior and interior features. The exterior of the Parliament Buildings includes what many visitors will see if they travel to Victoria's Inner Harbour, but they also include the land around the Parliament Buildings, known as the Legislative Precinct. This includes the many fountains, statues, and memorials that surround the Buildings.
The interior of the Parliament Buildings are open to the public for both self-guided tours or guided tours during regular business hours. However, there are many spaces that are not available to the public - MLAs use these spaces to prepare for the work they do in the Legislative Chamber or in parliamentary committees. Even though they have a more practical use, the interior of the Buildings contains exceptional art and fine architectural designs that are intended to inspire the public and their elected officials.
The Parliament Buildings are one of the most interesting places to visit in British Columbia. In exploring the Parliament Buildings and their multiple purposes, it is possible to gain an appreciation for parliamentary democracy and learn how decisions are made that shape the lives of all British Columbians.
The Parliament Buildings and surrounding areas are located on the traditional territories of the Lekwungen-speaking peoples. Now known as the Songhees and Esquimalt Nations, these Coast Salish peoples have a rich culture and history dating back thousands of years.
