The Johannesburg City Hall Complex

About The Johannesburg City Hall Complex

The Johannesburg City Hall Complex, situated on Rissik Street in the central business district, is a protected heritage site constructed between 1912 and 1914 by contractors Meischke and Matthew. Officially opened in 1915 by Governor-General Lord Buxton, the building was designed in the Edwardian Baroque style by architectural firm Hawke and McKinlay. The exterior features a prominent central clock tower and a portico with Ionic columns made of Free State sandstone, while the interior houses a historic Norman and Beard pipe organ. Historically, the complex's steps served as a prominent venue for political rallies and trade union protests during the 20th century. After the municipal administration relocated to the Johannesburg Civic Centre in Braamfontein during the 1970s, the property was eventually transferred to the Gauteng Provincial Government. Following extensive restorations, the complex currently functions as the official seat of the Gauteng Provincial Legislature.