City hall
Only in the days of British ruled Myanmar, particularly in Yangon in 1930, the traditional wooden-buildings were transformed into the grand stucco structures. Outstanding as a landmark in the heart of the city, beside the Sule pagoda is the magnificent City-Hall. It is one of the last few public buildings completed just before the Second World War (1939-45). The construction work of the present City-Hall began in 1926 and completed in 1936. The erection of a larger and more appropriate building for City-Hall was at hand but not practically performed as the forthcoming First World War (1914-18) held the construction-works up. In the late 1920s only, the building of a new City-Hall was started on the site of Old Ripon-Hall. With the suggestions of British authourities, the new City-Hall with the impressive figures of peacock, lotus and fire-breathing dragon in traditional Myanmar motifs was began to construct in 1926. The interior was composed of grand staircase in wood. Every gate to the main hall was ornamented with intricate carvings receding up to spiral design. Finally, the grand City-Hall was completed in typical Myanmar architecture in 1936 by U Tin of Myanmar architect. The opening ceremony was accompanied with a grand pomps and presented by the high ranking officers, even the then Governor Archibald Cochran. It was only in 1934 when the municipal committee was upgraded as a Corporation Council and the municipal was replaced by a mayor. Thus, many people regard that it was begun in 1934. Of all prewar principal official buildings, it was the first and only one to emerge in Myanmar architecture, symbolizing the rising of Myanmar influence in political and municipal affairs of the state. It is quadrangle in plan with large-gates facing to the cardinal points crowned by beautiful stucco arch-pediment in traditional Myanmar architecture-style. Inside it, there is a picturesques garden of colourful flower-beds with a neat grass-lawn. It is crowned in volute spiral design and one of the largest buildings which is unique for it modern Myanmar architectural design. It serves the venue of big social function and international conferences as well as the residence of mayor and Yangon City Development Council for years. In fact, this building of quadrangle with a large-turning at all corners, bulwark like centinel-watches crowned by beautiful spiral in Myanmar traditional style, the massive walls in large-spans are the striking-features of Myanmar architectural style in the former-half of 20 century, freed from the influence of Western architecture. This is the building from which the scientific sanitary system, development programmes of the city and environment, the convenience of city dwellers and citizens are conducted with up-most care and enthusiastic efforts all the time, by the mayor and development committee.
Book Title : Aspects of Myanmar Culture Presented By : Tim Mg Oo (B.A. English) Licensed Tour Guide