For over 40 years I’ve been seeing that huge cylindrical structure behind Rita in British movies like Taste of Honey and wondering what they are and what they are for. I’d deeply appreciate it if you’d be kind enough to enlighten me. 😄
Replies
I actually don't know! But I will ask around. Probably some kind of power generator.
aug 22, 2025, 10:55 pm • 1 1 • view
ChatGPT says it's a gasholder (or gasometer) used to store manufactured gas, prior to the adoption of natural gas in the late 1960s–70s. The outer framework supported a telescoping inner tank that would rise and fall depending on the volume of gas stored. Many have since been demolished.
aug 24, 2025, 5:21 pm • 1 0 • view
A mystery solved. I wonder if there are any left?
aug 24, 2025, 8:57 pm • 0 0 • view
From what I read, there are many across Europe. Some have become listed buildings, or they’ve been remodeled. In Germany one is an planetarium while in Vienna (pictured) they are now apartments!
aug 24, 2025, 10:57 pm • 1 0 • view
Thank you for the info. A puzzle solved.
aug 24, 2025, 11:54 pm • 1 0 • view
Glad you called my attention to them so I could finally find out about them.
aug 25, 2025, 5:02 pm • 1 0 • view