One of Liverpool's hidden treasures is to be opened-up to the public for a rare showing.
The Minton tile floor at St George's Hall is normally hidden from view by a wooden covering since it has long been decided that it is too precious to be walked upon.
From 30 January to the 15 February, visitors to the Hall will be able to view the exquisite Minton tiles which complete the Victorial splendour of the Great Hall.
The room consists of 30,000 hand crafted tiles, last uncovered in April 2007 following the completion of the ã23 million restoration of the Hall.
On that occasion more than 27,000 visitors flocked to see the immaculately preserved surface which was covered in the 1860s to provide a more hardwearing surface for dancing.
The hand-crafted tiles depict tritons, sea nymphs and boys on dolphins, as well as the city's coat of arms.
The Hall will be open from 10am to 5pm every day, and although booking is not necessary, there is a ã1 a head admission fee.
The city council's Executive Member for Tourism, Cllr Gary Millar, said: "St. GeorgeâÂÂs Hall is one of Liverpool's greatest cultural assets and we want to do everything we can to encourage as many people as possible to visit this amazing building.
"The response when we last unveiled the tiles was phenomenal, and I'm sure we'll have the same level of interest again.
"Thanks to our Capital of Culture year the building was seen by millions following events such as the 2008 opening ceremony where images of the Hall were broadcast worldwide. There are huge numbers of people who now want to see the inside of the venue and see the beautiful Minton tiles up close."
Last year, more than 167,000 people visited St. George's Hall, making it one of the top six heritage attractions in the city.
The Grade I listed building also scooped two prestigious Civic Trust Heritage Awards last year for the ten-year refurbishment which helped transform the building into one of Britain's best-loved cultural venues.
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