VOICED : Spectactular London interior gets clean

The Painted Hall, once part of a hospital for sailors, is undergoing its first major restoration in over 50 years. The Baroque masterpiece, completed by Sir James Thornhill in 1727, is being cleaned and conserved. Visitors can climb scaffolding to observe the conservators' work up close. The project is partially funded by Britain's Heritage Lottery Fund, but additional funds are needed. The Greenwich Foundation is seeking public donations to cover the £2 million cost. Despite the ongoing work, the Painted Hall remains open to the public, with the restoration expected to last up to five years.

What was the original purpose of the building that houses the Painted Hall?

• A hospital for sailors

• A royal palace

• A government office

• A university

Who completed the Painted Hall and how long did it take?

• Sir James Thornhill, 20 years

• Raphael, 25 years

• Leonardo da Vinci, 10 years

• Michelangelo, 15 years

What unique opportunity is offered to visitors during the restoration?

• Attending a conservator workshop

• Climbing the scaffolding to see the work up close

• Painting a section of the Hall

• Viewing a virtual reality tour

Which organization is partially funding the restoration?

• The British Museum

• The Royal Academy of Arts

• The National Trust

• Britain's Heritage Lottery Fund

How long is the restoration of the Painted Hall expected to last?

• Two years

• Three years

• Four years

• Five years