The Fullerton Hotel Sydney
Once the communication hub that connected Australia with the world, today the former Sydney General Post Office is home to The Fullerton Hotel Sydney
10am–4pm
About the building
The former General Post Office (GPO) has been a symbol of Sydney’s enduring spirit and historical growth as a communication hub since it opened its doors in 1874. It was the tallest building in Sydney for 64 years. Designed by Colonial Architect James Barnet, the GPO was intended to symbolise Sydney in the same way that the Houses of Parliament in Westminster represented London.
Barnet designed the building based on the Victorian Italian Renaissance style. The northern facade, along Martin Place, was described as ‘the finest example of the Victorian Italian Renaissance Style in NSW’. The Martin Place mascarons (ornaments in the shape of a face) of the GPO were carved in Italy by sculptor Giovanni Fontana out of Sicilian marble.
The building opened in 1874. The second stage was completed in 1881, and the clock tower was completed in 1891, making the GPO the tallest civic structure in NSW and the timekeeper of Sydney. Throughout its history, the GPO has witnessed Sydney's transformation into a bustling metropolis and has served as a critical link for soldiers sending messages home. It played a significant role in major events, including Victory Day in 1918, at the end of World War I. Victory Day was celebrated one day after Armistice, drawing a large crowd in front of No.1 Martin Place.
The Fullerton Hotel Sydney became custodians of No.1 Martin Place in 2019. They continue to preserve the heritage of the former GPO by offering heritage tours to the public.
The Fullerton Hotel Sydney
1 Martin Place, Sydney
Entry details
Lobby, foyer, atrium, grand staircase, black-and-white staircase, and the bridge on level 6
10am–4pm
3.30pm
Need to know
Accessible featuresThere is wheelchair access for the grand staircase from level 1 or near the Martin Place entrance. The ground floor is fully accessible only from the lobby entrance. The black-and-white staircase and the Tank Stream have lift access on Pitt Street. Accessible toilets are available
Toilets availablePhotography allowedNo photography of hotel guests or patrons
Food and drink availableThe Place, The Bar. Sydney Open ticket holders receive 10% off food and drink. Members with a Sydney Open ticket receive 25% off food and drink
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