Global Classroom students started their third week in London with a tour of one of London’s most famous entertainment venues, Royal Albert Hall.

The Royal Albert Hall was built to fulfil the vision of Prince Albert—the consort of Queen Victoria—of a central hall that would be used to promote understanding and appreciation of the arts and sciences.

Since its opening by Queen Victoria in 1871, many world leading performers have graced its stage. It hosts more than 350 major events each year, including classical, rock, and pop concerts, ballet, opera, award ceremonies, school and community events, charity performances and banquets.

Originally planned to be named The Central Hall of Arts and Sciences, Queen Victoria changed the name to the Royal Albert Hall of Arts and Sciences when laying the foundation stone, as a tribute to her late husband, Prince Albert.

Students explored the Hall and learned about the history behind the building’s design by Captain Francis Fowke and Major-General Henry Y.D. Scott of the Royal Engineers. Both men were heavily influenced by ancient amphitheatres.