The Shard opens with spectacular laser show in time for Olympic games

The Shard, Western Europe’s tallest building, was 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).