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Imre Kiralfy (1845-1919) founder of the Great White City. Born into a wealthy Jewish family in the Austro-Hungarian city of Pest, Imre Kiralfy first made his name as entrepreneur and creator of spectacular shows and exhibitions in the USA. In 1891 he moved to London to create 'Venice in London', a spectacular play held at the Olympia exhibition hall that recreated Venice's bridges and canals. The success of 'Venice in London' inspired Imre and his sons to rebuild Earl's Court where, from 1895' they created exhibitions that celebrated the achievements of the British Empire and entertained visitors with attractions such as the Ferris wheel and amusement park. In 1908 the Kiralfy family opened the hugely ambitious Great White City at Shepherd's Bush. Built in a palatial oriental style, White City hosted annual exhibitions until 1914, as well as the olympic games in 1908 and became one of London's greatest visitor attractions. Imre became a british citizen in 1901 and died in Brighton aged 74 years.