The heart of Hong Kong city, the Central district, has been developing since the inception of British rule in 1841. Western-style buildings sprang up as the city grew prosperously, and the early 20th century saw Hong Kong develop into a metropolis. Extensive reclamations extending the waterfront and development projects were carried out during different periods and although the outlook of Hong Kong is ever changing, many historical buildings and structures still survive as standing testimony to the history of Hong Kong Island’s Central district.