Superior Avenue at East 6th Street. Walker & Weeks, architects.

One of the finest structures in Cleveland is also the most beautiful of the twelve Federal Reserve Banks. The 12-story building was inspired by the Medici Palace in Florence — the Medici being the great bankers of the early Renaissance. Like the Medici Palace, the architects wanted the bank to appear impenetrable. The rusticated base is of pink granite, and upper stories are of a pink Georgia marble. Allegorical sculptures by Henry Hering representing "Security" and "Integrity" flank the East 6th Street entrance while "Energy" watches the Superior Avenue entry. The exterior ironwork was fabricated by Rose Iron Works of Cleveland.

Inside, the banking hall wallows in opulence — it has been compared to "walking into a bar of gold." The vaulted ceilings are coffered and ornamented with gold gilt. Luxurious gold marble walls and pillars represent a magnificent interpretation of the Italian Renaissance. The contrast of the exquisite ironwork against the polished Sienna marble adds to the visual impact of the room.

Ordinarily the public is not permitted to take photographs inside the bank lobby, but the tour coordinator made an exception for our group. Amazingly, anyone can see this spectacular interior: the bank lobby and Money Museum (located off the lobby) are open to the public Monday through Thursday 10:00am-2:00pm. Special arrangements must be made for groups of 10 or more. Admission is free. Learn more at www.clevelandfed.org.

Please visit our Galleries to view more of our Tour Photographs.