- Construction of the Taipei Financial Center began in 1999 and was completed five years later in 2004. The building opened to the public in December of 2004. Samsung Engineering and Construction and KTRT Joint Venture were the primary contractors working on the project.
- The building was designed by C.Y. Lee and Partners. C.Y. Lee is a well-respected architect who has designed several landmark buildings in Taiwan and China, including two others that were known as Taiwan's tallest at the time they were built.
- The Taipei Financial Center stands 1,473 feet from the ground to its roof and 1,670 feet from the ground to the top of its spire, with 101 floors. The name Taipei 101 refers to the number of floors in the building as well as its location in Taipei's 101 zip code area. Although the building is of an extraordinary height in an area of the world commonly plagued with natural disasters, Taipei 101 has been designed to withstand typhoons and earthquakes.
- Taipei 101 offers many unique features to those who pass through its doors. At its base lies a mall filled with flagship stores and fine restaurants. Tenants include restaurants, banks, investment firms and other businesses. The building features world-class artwork on its grounds, such as the "Love and 101" statue by American artist Robert Indiana, as well as two observatories.
- For those who would like to view the city from the dizzying heights of the Taipei Financial Center, there are two observatories. After tickets are purchased, guests watch a film about the tower then take a high-speed elevator to the 89th floor, the indoor observation floor. From there guests can enjoy views of the bustling city as well as the Taipei Basin. There are audio tours, binoculars, a souvenir shop and a bar on this floor. From the 89th floor visitors can climb a staircase to the outdoor observatory on the 91st floor, which is open only if weather permits.
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