Port Elizabeth Main Public Library

Description

The Port Elizabeth Main Public Library is situated in the north western corner of Market Square in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape. The first building on the site was built in 1835 and used as a courthouse from 1854. The present library building was officially opened in 1902 and is regarded as a prime example of Victorian Gothic architecture.

The Sicilian marble statue of Queen Victoria keeps watch over the square. It was erected in 1903. It is the only historic building in South Africa built as a public library that is still being used as a library. It was declared a national monument in 1973. Don’t forget to check out the stained glass dome.