In London, What Is The "Gherkin"�?

Visitors to London always meet the Gherkin with curiosity. It is London's most distinctive skyscraper, called the Gherkin for obvious reasons linked to its shape. The official name for the building, which is just smaller than the neighbouring Natwest Tower, is 30 St Mary Axe. It was built in 2002-3 and has 41 floors of offices, chiefly housing the reinsurance giant Swiss. The Gherkin is London's first eco-friendly skyscraper, if there is such a notion. The architect, Norman Foster, designed the offices to spiral around internal 'sky gardens'. When the windows are opened, the gardens are used to reprocess stale air, reducing the need for air conditioning devices. The round design of the tower allows more natural light to get into the building meaning less electricity is used.

The building is met with fascination by visitors to England's capital. But looking at it is about the only way people are able to admire it, unless they work there. Tours are conducted but are very pricey and the security checks are vigorous.

At the top is a restaurant.