Melbourne Central

Architect: 1889, Kisho Kurokawa 1991

City of Melbourne | C16

Building Description

Spanning two city blocks, Melbourne Central boasts several unique architectural features – none more famous than the architectural wonder of renowned Japanese architect Kisho Kurokawa, the 20 story high glass cone which acts as a giant skylight for the centre. The glass cone houses the heritage listed centrepiece, ‘Coop’s Shot Tower’, a bullet making facility designed in 1889. Coop’s Shot Tower is a reminder of central Melbourne’s industrial heritage. The castellated tower (one of only three left in Australia) was completed in 1890 for the production of spherical lead shot used in shot guns. At 50 metres high, it was the tallest building in Melbourne until the 1930s, and remains a local landmark today for millions of people who use Melbourne Central Train Station every year. Recognised by the National Trust in 1973 for its unique industrial and social heritage value, the tower was enclosed within Kisho Kurokawa’s striking 84-metre glass cone in 1990. Complimenting this historic landmark is the giant Marionette watch hanging in Shot Tower Square, which famously marks every hour with a rendition of the iconic ‘Waltzing Matilda’.

What's On

Go behind the scenes on a Melbourne Central Unlocked Tour and hear fascinating tales about the historic Coop’s Shot Tower, visit hidden nooks and rarely-seen vantage points with amazing views of the city skyline, and step into the base of the iconic glass cone for a truly unique look over Melbourne’s busiest shopping precinct.

Location