The Shard opening in London today

"Western Europe's tallest building, The Shard, will be formally inaugurated in London today by His Excellency Sheikh Hamad Bin Jassem Bin Jabor Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the State of Qatar and HRH the Duke of York KG. The event marks the physical completion of the exterior of the building -- which is fast becoming one of the most recognisable London skyline silhouettes.

The inauguration represents the culmination of a 12-year journey to build a significant new landmark on the London skyline. Designed by renowned master architect Renzo Piano and developed by Sellar Property, The Shard stands at 310m (1,016 ft). The Shard's 95-stories will become a 'vertical town' comprising office space, residences, restaurants and the five-star Shangri-La Hotel. The building will also house the capital's highest public viewing gallery, The View from The Shard, which will offer 360° views of London stretching for over 40 miles and opens on 1 February 2013..." (more)

Watch the inauguration live here.

(picture from The Shard website)