It was planned to be opened in 2001 — in the Centenary of Australian Federation — but with such a large project involving a number of evolving logistical problems, such as building above railway lines without disrupting rail travel, it was only in 2002 that Melbourne's Federation Square opened.
But there it is, after eight years of planning and construction, a complex of distinctive, modern buildings, an irregular piazza and an atrium that brings the forest to the city.
Civic centre, meeting place
Designed as a public civic centre and meeting place, Federation Square links Melbourne's central business district north of the Yarra River to the river itself and the gardens and parklands across the river.
With its striking architecture, Federation Square is, to some, quite dazzling to behold, if sometimes seeming to lack needed warmth, particularly in a city with a relatively colder climate in Australia's south.
A place to visit? Most definitely.
Convenient first stop
For visitors to Melbourne, Federation Square lies just across Swanston St from Flinders St Station, that hub of city and suburban rail travel.
And right at the corner of Swanston and Flinders Sts lies the new Melbourne Visitor Centre in Federation Square, a convenient first stop for those planning to explore, and enjoy the activities and attractions of, Victoria's capital city.
Commerce and culture
There are a variety of shops, coffee shops and restaurants to cater for a variety of wants, but for those seeking to experience Australian art and culture, there is — to begin with — the Ian Potter Centre of the National Gallery of Victoria right in Federation Square itself.
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