From Thursday September 10, some of the city's most inspiring examples of architecture will be opening their doors to the public, allowing a rare chance to get an exciting glimpse behind the scenes.
Birmingham's first ever Heritage Week (part of the country-wide Heritage Open Days festival) is taking place September 10-17, with many of the city's cathedrals, museums and other places of cultural interest running tours, workshops and talks – completely free of charge.
To find out everything that's happening over the course of the week, check the full brochure here. It's a huge programme of events, though, so we've put together a selection that are well worth paying a visit:
The Rotunda
Surround yourself with Birmingham's skyline by taking a tour of The Rotunda, arguably Birmingham's most iconic building, which turns 50 this year.
Some will remember the tower as the site of the Birmingham bombings back in 1974, but few are aware that this is also a grade II listed building. During the tour, you can learn more about the building's architecture and how it's recently been transformed from offices to awesome one-of-a-kind apartments.
Rotunda, Moor St, Birmingham, West Midlands B5 4BL.
Ikon gallery
Designed in the 1870s by architect John Henry Chamberlain, the Ikon Gallery was Oozells Street Board School in its former life.
Today, it's renowned for contemporary and modern art, so, while this might not be the first time you visit the famous gallery, this weekend the you'll have the chance to learn about the history of the Ikon’s current home.
Ikon Gallery, 1 Oozells Square, Brindleyplace, B1 2HS.
Birmingham Cathedral
This year, Birmingham Cathedral turns 300 years old. It will be celebrating with displays, craft and theatrical performances in the churchyard, as well as guided tours inside.
There will also be a children's art trail and other activities, making this a great choice for all the family to visit.
Birmingham Cathedral, Colmore Row, Birmingham B3 2QB.
St Chad's Cathedral
Built between 1839 and 1841, St Chad’s Cathedral is an often forgotten location in Birmingham City Centre, but has some seriously impressive heritage.
For starters, the cathedral was designed by Augustus Welby Northmore Pugin, the world famous pioneer of Gothic revival architecture. The building also has a large collection of medieval furnishings collected by Pugin, and you can book a tour to learn more about them.
St Chad's Cathedral, Queensway, Birmingham B4 6EU.
Electric Cinema
A solid choice for an alternative night out in Birmingham, the Electric Cinema is the oldest working picture house in the country. Built over 100 years ago, the cinema was renovated by local entrepreneur Tom Lawes in 2004.
Though very little of the original building still exists, this week's tours will look at how the old is merging with the new, and also include a ticket to a screening of one of the films being shown on the day.
Electric Cinema, 47-49 Station St, Birmingham B5 4DY.
Municipal Banks
The first Municipal Bank in the country, this imposing building on Broad Street was designed by Thomas Cecil Howitt in 1933. Don't let its imposing exterior deceive you, though – the grand columns and large bronze doors were used by the ordinary everyday office worker.
Even so, the bank is not usually open to the public, so joining a tour is a must this weekend.
Birmingham Municipal Bank, Broad Street, Birmingham, B1 2DR.
Moseley Baths
Immerse yourself in the history of Moseley Road Baths. Along with an hour's free swimming on Saturday September 12, there will be also tours of the grade II listed building on September 14. A perfect way to celebrate Birmingham's heritage, whatever the weather.
Moseley Road Baths, Moseley Rd, Birmingham, B12 9BX.
Birmingham Oratory
Another of the many listed buildings open this weekend is the Birmingham Oratory. A real step back in time, the beautiful Italian Baroque inspired architecture is simply stunning.
The oratory is also known for playing a significant role in author JRR Tolkein's life, as the prolific writer was a parishioner there for nine years.
The Oratory, 141 Hagley Road, Birmingham, West Midlands, B16 8UE.
While you are in the mood for some local culture, take a look at some of the city's best museums.