Source: www.guardian.co.uk
LONDON, ENGLAND, September 20, 2009: The Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, known locally as Neasden Temple, was one of the highlights of this year’s Open House architecture festival in London. Although it is the biggest Hindu temple in Europe, the intricate design belies its size.
The temple, which opened in 1995, receives more than 500,000 visitors each year. Although open to the public all year round, a spokesman says the Open House event encourages non-Hindus, including many nearby residents, to come, and more than 2,000 were expected over the weekend.
More than 700 buildings across London, including architecture award-winning private homes, Masonic temples and futuristic classrooms, were on show, giving visitors direct access to architects and designers.