Why is 30, St. Mary Axe Known as ' The Gherkin" ?

30, St Mary Axe is the address of a tall round office building in London that is known affectionately as The Gherkin, because of its distinctive shape that resembles the vegetable called gherkin ( a small cucumber used for pickling ).

 The Gherkin was designed by Sir Norman Foster, and opened in 2004. It is in the heart of London's financial center

 The exterior swirling striped pattern allows the air to flow up through spiraling wells, and is an energy saving measure. At the top is a glass conical dome, offering spectacular views of the city.