The Chicago Cultural Center is located in downtown Chicago, Illinois. Its construction started in 1893 and the building was completed in 1897. Approximately two million dollars were spent on the construction of this splendid building. Its design style is a combination of Greek, Roman, and Italian architecture. Some of the materials used in its intricate construction were marble, brass, hardwood, Favrile glass, pearls, different colored stones, iron, etc. Until 1950, it was used by the Chicago Public Library as well as the Headquarter of Grand Army of Republic. Afterward, it was used solely as a Library. In 1991 the library moved to another building and this building was renamed the Chicago Cultural Center. It is the first national, free municipal cultural center. Entry to this building is free. Every year thousands of people come to see this place as well as many art shows, music events, exhibitions, cultural events etc. happening here. There are free tours of the building. On some select Saturdays, the judge comes and conducts weddings also. These weddings are free of charge.
The building is breathtakingly beautiful, approximately 100 feet tall, and its walls are about three feet thick.
It has two domes. One dome is in the Preston Bradley Hall. This is the largest Tiffany Dome in the world. It is 38 feet in diameter and contains 30,000 pieces of Favrile (iridescent) glass and about 5,500 copper foiled glass jewels.
Another dome is in the Grand Army of Republic Hall. This one is 40 feet in diameter and has 50,000 pieces of glass and was designed by Healy and Millet.
In one hall there are hieroglyphics in Egyptian, Hebrew, Chinese, Arabic, and German languages, all stating the importance of the library.
It has theaters too, and also houses the Congressman Sidney R Yates gallery.
The building was repaired, cleaned, and renovated in 2008 and now is worth approximately 35,000,000 dollars.
If you live in Chicago or are visiting Chicago, please do not miss the chance to see this breathtakingly beautiful gem of the city.
Bharti Raizada May 15, 2018