Liverpool’s Three Graces

The Three Graces is the name given to the trio of majestic buildings that stand at Pier Head in Liverpool. They are ranked amongst the city’s top tourist attractions, and a must-see for anybody staying at a Liverpool centre hotel.

Pier Head is the historic waterfront in the centre of the city of Liverpool, where the old town meets the banks of the river Mersey. This whole area was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004, as a part of the historic Liverpool Maritime Mercantile City.

Built on the site of the old George’s Dock, the Three Graces are known individually as the Royal Liver Building, the Cunard Building and the Port of Liverpool Building. All three of them were built in the first two decades of the twentieth century, and their stately architecture and elegant design reflect the wealth and status of this merchant city at that time.

The Royal Liver Building, constructed between 1908 and 1911, is a Grade I listed building, designed by the architect Walter Aubrey Thomas. Now the headquarters of the Royal Liver Friendly Society, the building boasts two dramatic clock towers; each crowned with a statue of Liverpool’s famous feathered mascot, the Liver Bird.

The Cunard Building was constructed a little later, between the years of 1914 and 1916. This Grade II building now houses the nautical shipping company, Cunard Line.

Finally, the Port Of Liver Building is the oldest of the three, and arguable the most beautiful. Built between 1903 and 1907, this Grade II listed building used to house the Mersey Docks and Harbour Board.

So, for a fascinating glimpse at the prosperity of Liverpool at the turn of the 20th century, pay a visit to the fabulous Three Graces – they can easily be reached on foot from any of the Liverpool city centre hotels. For lovers of architecture, history and culture, the Three Graces are an absolute must-see on any sightseeing trip to Liverpool.