Birmingham’s history goes back centuries and the remnants of the eras gone by can be seen in the city’s architecture. There are so many old and new buildings sitting side by side - with several amazing architectural marvels having been built in recent history as well.
So, we asked BirminghamWorld readers about their favourite landmarks in the city and the response was overwhelming - with the Rotunda getting a lot of love, along with several other Birmingham city centre structures. However, we also received recommendations form some more unlikely places, such as Pimple Hill.
There are many incredible architectural and design marvels that have come to be identified with the dynamic city. Here are 25 favourite landmarks in Birmingham, chosen by Brummies:
1. Rotunda, Birmingham city centre
The Rotunda is a Grade II listed building that is 266 ft tall and was completed in 1965. Originally designed to be an office block, by architect James A. Roberts A.R.I.B.A., it was refurbished between 2004 and 2008 by Urban Splash with Glenn Howells who turned it into a residential building, with serviced apartments on 19th and 20th floors. The building was officially reopened on 13 May 2008. Several Brummies picked the Rotunda as the best landmark. (Photo - Adobe Stock)
2. Hall of Memory, Centenary Square
The Hall of Memory was built to commemorate the 12,320 Birmingham citizens who died and the 35,000 who were wounded in the First World War. Our readers picked it as one of the best landmarks in the city. (Photo - dudlajzov - stock.adobe.com)
3. Soho House, Birmingham
This is the elegant home of industrial pioneer Matthew Boulton, who lived in Soho House from 1766 to 1809. Matthew Boulton (1728-1809) is one of the most important historic figures associated with the city of Birmingham. During his lifetime Boulton was a world-famous figure, but since the twentieth century his name has been largely overshadowed by that of his business partner, James Watt. (Photo - Wehwalt/ Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported)
4. Warstone Lane Cemetery Catacombs
Warstone Lane Cemetery Catacombs or Brookfield Cemetery has a secret catacomb. It was established in 1848 and burials took place until 1982. It looks like a semicircle just like a Roman amphitheatre.