Parliament Haus

Parliament Haus Review

Port Moresby is hardly overwhelmed with fascinating architecture, but this is one building that bucks the trend. Officially opened in 1984 in the presence of HRH Prince Charles, the angular main block is designed in the form of a Maprik-style haus tambaran, or spirit house, while the adjacent circular café building is Eastern Highlands in design. The most remarkable feature of the exterior is its façade, covered with a fabulous mosaic mural depicting various motifs. Created by several of Papua New Guinea's best known artists of the time, it represents each of the provinces. Inside, the cavernous lobby contains a collection of Sepik masks, as well as glass cases filled with a collection of massive local butterflies, beetles, and stick insects. Locals advise against coming here on weekends, as there have been reports of muggings.