Customs House

The sandstone facade of the Customs House features a row of Corinthian columns that hold up a heavy, classical pediment above the entrance. For over a century, this building served as the gatekeeper for every ship entering Sydney Harbour. During the height of the gold rush, officials inside processed duties on everything from imported luxury silks to basic mining equipment. It remained the center of Australian trade until the nineteen nineties, when its maritime purpose finally faded and gave way to its current role.