Editorial – The Scottish Banner Says….

October 2025 (Vol. 49, Number 04)

The Banner Says…

Glasgow City Chambers-A proud symbol of Glasgow

On a recent visit to Glasgow, I had the opportunity to again visit Glasgow City Chambers, one of the most iconic buildings to be found in the city. Whilst there I was given a private tour of just some of the incredible spaces found in this historic and amazing building. Glasgow City Chambers stands proudly on the eastern edge of George Square and is one of Scotland’s most magnificent civic buildings and a powerful symbol of Glasgow’s historical wealth, ambition, and civic pride.

Completed in 1888 and opened by Queen Victoria herself, the building reflects the city’s meteoric rise during the Victorian era, when Glasgow was known as the “Second City of the Empire” due to its booming trade, shipbuilding, and industrial prowess. The need for a grand municipal headquarters had been growing since the 18th century, as Glasgow’s population and political responsibilities expanded. Earlier council meetings were held in modest locations like the Tolbooth at Glasgow Cross and later in various buildings near the Saltmarket and Ingram Street.

Glasgow’s growing status

But by the 1880s, the city’s leaders sought a purpose-built structure that would reflect Glasgow’s growing status and accommodate its administrative needs. A design competition attracted over 100 entries, and the winning design by Paisley born architect William Young was chosen for its opulent Victorian style and practical layout.

Construction began in 1882, and the foundation stone was laid in 1883 by the then Lord Provost John Ure during a public holiday attended by an astonishing 600,000 people. The building was completed five years later, and its grandeur was immediately apparent. The building cost £552,028 which as you may be able to imagine was considerable for that time.

Whilst the outside of the building is spectacular you really need to go inside to fully understand not just how incredible this building is, but to understand Glasgow’s political strength and historical wealth. The interior boasts a sweeping Carrara marble staircase—reputedly the largest of its kind in the world— vaulted mosaic ceilings, and pillars made from Aberdeen granite and polished red Scottish granite topped with green marble. The building incredibly features more marble than what is found at the Vatican. These lavish materials showcase an Italian influence and were deliberately chosen to highlight Glasgow’s prosperity and craftsmanship.

In this issue

A trip to the Scottish Highlands is not complete without visiting Inverness and Loch Ness. Go for the scenery, history, Highland culture and friendly locals. There is an unquestionable timeless drama about the region which makes it a must on your next Scottish adventure.

Some love them, and some not so much, but stroll around a graveyard and there are many stories to be told. Scottish graveyards are rich in history and fascinating, I have visited many and am drawn to the stories the stones tell and the oftenlovely natural setting that those who came before us rest in.

East Linton is a small country village, located on the banks of the River Tyne between Haddington and Dunbar in East Lothian, with a lot of history. The village and surrounding area not only offer beauty but also centuries of history which is quite easily accessible when looking for something different when next in Scotland.

Glasgow’s civic spirit

Glasgow City Chambers today remains a working municipal building. Council meets regularly and meetings are open to the public. As you would imagine the staff working here are immensely proud of this building. The building has hosted royalty, heads of state, sporting greats, and countless everyday great people.

You can, and really should, take the free tour of this building, these run Monday to Friday twice a day. Public tours allow visitors to explore its ornate rooms and learn about Glasgow’s civic legacy, making it not just a seat of power but a living museum of the city’s identity. Outside George Square is currently undergoing a lengthy redevelopment, but the City Chambers are still in full operation.

Glasgow City Chambers is more than a municipal building—it’s a monument to the city’s industrial might, artistic heritage, and celebrates Glasgow’s civic spirit. Its history mirrors Glasgow’s transformation from medieval burgh to what is today’s Scotland’s largest city which this year is celebrating 850 years, and its continued use underscores the city’s commitment to honouring its past while shaping its future.

Have you visited Glasgow City Chambers? Do you have you any comments from the content in this month’s edition? Share your story with us by email, post, social media or at: www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us

#ScottishBanner, #TheBanner #NewsForGlobalScots

The Scottish Banner is more reliant than ever on our readers helping us to provide you with our unique content by buying a copy of our publication, regardless if by print or digital subscription or at a retail outlet.

We appreciate your support and hope you enjoy this edition.