THE 'magnificent' vaulted ceiling of Oxford Town Hall was unveiled yesterday after a £140,000 restoration.
The hall has been closed since June to allow the work to take place, which was three years in the planning.
Experts from painting firm Mitie have spent the past 13 weeks brushing, vacuuming and painting the ceiling by hand.
Neill Benham, of Mitie, said: "It’s been a privilege to work on such an historic building and to work with the staff of Oxford City Council, all of whom contributed to this stunning project."
Oxford City Council leader Bob Price said the hall was "the most impressive" of the Victorian town hall's public rooms.
The building was designed by Henry Hare and was officially opened by the Prince of Wales in 1897. It is Grade II*-listed.
Mr Price added: “The city council has maintained the hall in excellent condition for well over a century, and this latest refurbishment and redecoration will ensure that it is in sparkling condition for the many events which will be taking place there in the coming years.”
Town Hall is used for a range of civic and corporate events, including wedding receptions and the Oxford Beer Festival.
It brings in more than £500,000 every year for the council.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here