A to Z of Leeds: The city museum famed for fighting talk

Actress Una Stubbs, in a costume of Queen Elizabeth 1, meets Queen Elizabeth 2 during her visit to Leeds for the opening of The Royal Armouries in March 1996.

There are many reasons for this bold claim, from the people who've called this place home, to the history of the region, the developments underway and the talent and creativity we see on a daily basis. Here, we go through the alphabet to give you some reasons to be proud.

R IS FOR ROYAL ARMOURIES

When it was opened by The Queen in March 1996 it was seen as a great coup for the city of Leeds at the time and the newly-developed Clarence Dock area.

The foundation stone was laid in 1994 by the Duke of Kent, who was also present at the official opening more than 20 years ago.

The building cost £42.5m and was designed by Swedish architect Henning Larsen. It displays the National Collection of Arms and Armour, which was previously on display or in storage at the Tower of London.

Housing a world-renowned collection of over 75,000 objects, there are a wide variety of themed displays and galleries to explore throughout five floors, including the architectural centrepiece of the museum - the Hall of Steel.

The building’s iconic glass and steel tower can be seen from all levels as well as providing a great view of the city and docks. Visitors young and old will be amazed by the largest mass display of military equipment since the 19th Century encased inside. Entry is free.

MORE A TO Z OF LEEDS:

A: How Arthur Aaron became a war hero .

B: Ivy Benson - Leeds's own pioneer of 'girl power'

C: The curious custom of Leeds Town Hall clock

D: The city landmark made of 18 million bricksE: Briggate's Empire TheatreF: The Farnley Wood Plot

G: The suffragette who valiantly fought for women’s right to voteH: The vicar who helped rebuild Leeds Parish Church

I: The Leeds hotel known as 'The Imp'

J: The city's J.R.R. Tolkein connection

K: The city street boasting 1,000 years of historyL: The 'miserable looking' mangy city centre landmarksM: The city centre department store that fell out of fashionN: The pub visited by highwayman Dick TurpinO: The city's own 'Factory King'

P: The city's own king of clocksQ: From tram shed to top of the pops

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Laura Collins