These opposing buildings, one old and one new, have played a pivotal process in N. Ireland's judicial system, not least through the Troubles. Opened in 1933 (and provided by the British Government's partitionist 1920 Government of Ireland Act) the Royal Courts house the High Court, Court of Appeal and Crown Court. Designed in recessional-imperial style, its Portland Stone facade is dominated by large Corinthian columns and 13 imposing bays, the central three of which are recessed to form a porch. Look out for the newer door with bronze reliefs bearing thought-provoking quotes. The Laganside Courts stand on what was once the site of a livestock market, then fire station, opposite Belfast's original Town Hall. The large contemporary 2002 building houses six Crown, five County and five Magistrates Courts. Outside both courts, in an area once cut off to the general public for security reasons, is a landscaped pedestrianised area with lawn and seating.