Royal Albert Hall
The concert hall is part of a monument dedicated to Prince Albert, husband of Queen Victoria. Its design was modeled on a Roman amphitheater and is an example of classic Italian architecture. The oval-shaped room has a capacity of 9,500 guests, 7,000 seats and 2,500 standing places.
The hall houses the largest organ in Great Britain. They are used, among others at the Proms, an annual series of classical music concerts held every day for 8 weeks during the summer season. The festival was organized for the first time in 1895, and since 1944 it has been held at the Royal Albert Hall.
The hall was opened in March 1871. The inauguration took place in the presence of Queen Victoria. Since then, various cultural events have been regularly held here: concerts, conferences, balls and scientific and sports lectures. Among others, first sumo competition outside Japan.