It was created in 1889 when Birmingham was celebrating the 100th anniversary of its city charter which was granted by Queen Victoria in 1889.

The square contains a neo-classical office block called Baskerville House (1939), the Hall of Memory (1925), the Birmingham Rep (1971) and the main entrance to Symphony Hall and the International Convention Centre.

The new City of Birmingham Library is currently under construction next to the Birmingham Rep; both buildings will share a foyer, 300-seat theatre and external amphitheatre.

The square features pavings, rails and lamps by Tess Jaray and contains several modern sculptures including the Golden Boys on Broad Street, Industry & Genius outside Baskerville House, and Spirit and Enterprise outside the Birmingham Rep.

Centenary Square is connected to Chamberlain Square and Victoria Square by a footbridge above Queensway.