Discover a rich hub of international diplomacy on the banks of the river Thames. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) – with its stunning views of river and Parliament, a vast fleet of boat models, statues, and an inspiring debating chamber used by delegates from 176 countries to make the rules that govern international shipping – will be welcoming visitors to its United Nations agency headquarters as part of London's annual Open House Festival (20-21 September).
The Festival allows people access inside buildings around the city of architectural or cultural significance which are generally off-limits to the public. Those who wish to drop-in can do so on Saturday 20th (including a chance to meet IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez) and Sunday 21st September.
Full details are available on the Open House Festival website. Watch the video teaser here.
IMO is the United Nations specialized agency with responsibility for the safety and security of shipping and the prevention of marine and atmospheric pollution by ships. Its headquarters building, located on London's Albert Embankment on the south bank of the River Thames, was purpose-built by the United Kingdom Government for the Organization during the 1970s. Its foundation stone was laid by the then Duke of Edinburgh in 1979. The building was formally opened in 1983 by the late Queen, Elizabeth II. Following a subsequent major refurbishment, it was reopened in 2008 by the Queen's cousin, the Duke of Gloucester.
As they arrive at the main entrance, visitors will see the striking seven-metre tall, ten-tonne bronze statue by Michael Sandle which was added to the front of the building in 2001. It depicts a lone seafarer keeping lookout on the prow of a merchant ship.
On the ground floor there will be a video welcome message from the Secretary-General and visitors will be able to spend time in the main debating chamber, complete with 6-language simultaneous interpretation booths, where IMO's 176 Member States and over 150 accredited observer organizations hold their most important meetings to discuss the regulation of global shipping and how to protect the marine environment.
The first floor will feature a children's activity area which includes a giant jigsaw puzzle of the IMO logo and the ITF Seafarers' Trust 'Life At Sea' Photo Exhibition, which captures all aspects of life at sea from the unique perspective of the crews who work on board these ships every day. Visitors will have the opportunity to browse the many maritime artefacts and ship models on display.
From the fourth-floor roof terrace, visitors will be able to take in spectacular views of London along the Thames, looking across to the Houses of Parliament on the opposite bank and beyond and in the cafeteria a video will be shown explaining the structure and work of IMO, the only UN agency to be headquartered in London
IMO officials will be on hand on all floors to answer any questions.