A massive concrete ziggurat with many spaces for exhibitions, concerts and film screenings, the Barbican Centre is a building that divides opinion. It is also the largest performing arts centre in Europe.

The centre opened in 1982. It was designed by architects Chamberlin, Powell and Bon and built in the Brutalist style at a cost of £161 million. In September 2003 it was voted London’s Ugliest Building, and yet there are many who admire the boldness of its lines.

The Centre has a complicated multi-floor layout with many entrances and separate areas. Lines are painted on the floor to help visitors navigate the walkways of the Barbican Estate en route to the centre. Outside, the main focal point of the Centre is the lake and its neighbouring terrace. The theatre's fly tower has been surrounded by glass and made into a spectacular high-level conservatory.

Classical and pop music concerts, theatrical productions, film screenings and exhibitions are all accommodated within the centre. It also contains a library and three restaurants and is home to both the London Symphony Orchestra and the BBC Symphony Orchestra.

The Guildhall School of Music and Drama and the City of London's Barbican Library are also on the site.