Facing the Monongahela River, this area was once a major commercial hub due to its proximity to the now long-defunct Monongahela Wharf. Along the 200 block of Fort Pitt Blvd is a surviving fragment of the commercial architecture of the late 19th century which defined this neighborhood. Cast-iron ornamental elements and Queen Anne-style structures reflect the architectural tastes of the time.
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A unique set of buildings developed by Pittsburgh Plate Glass as their headquarters. All the buildings are faced entirely with a glittering, sun inhibiting plate glass and sport ornate, yet modern, glass pinnacles like candles on a birthday cake. One PPG Place (the tall one) is one of the most recognizable buildings in the skyline, with its neo-Gothic crenelations, and the city's third tallest. Among these buildings is an unusual park which, in the winter, is flooded with water and used for ice skating, like Rockefeller Center in Manhattan.
Fourth Avenue used to be the financial center of Pittsburgh, and a lot of great architecture remains on Fourth even if most of the banks have moved to taller, shinier buildings. However, a branch of the Dollar Savings Bank remains, with impressive classical architecture in dark stone and lion statues flanking the entrance.
A gleaming white set of buildings, the tallest of which is the city's fifth tallest. At night they are lit up rather nicely.
Highmark Place
The city's fourth tallest building, this building is easily recognizable due to its pyramid-shaped top with its tall mast. A food court is available on the second floor.
A 20-story building constructed by the industrialist Henry Clay Frick in 1902. The building sports many lavish features, such as marble ceilings, intricate grillwork, and stained glass windows.
A magnificent concert hall, Heinz Hall is the home of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra.