/AP-Yonhap

The Shard, a newly-constructed high-rise in London that looks like a stretched glass pyramid, was officially inaugurated on Thursday.

It ranks as the tallest building in Western Europe, measuring 309.6 m in height, and features offices, a 5-star hotel with more than 200 rooms and suites, and three floors of restaurants.

It will also house exclusive residential apartments, while the top levels will play home to the capital's highest public viewing gallery, offering 360-degree views of the city.

The Shard, designed by Italian architect Renzo Piano, has replaced the Southwark Tower just outside London Bridge rail station.