City of London
Sunlight is reflected from Norman Foster's "Gherkin" as it stands among other buildings in the City of London Reuters

Iconic City of London skyscraper the Gherkin has been sold to Brazilian investment firm Safra for a reported £726m ($1.154bn, €925m), sources have told the Financial Times.

The 41-floor building is officially called 30 St Mary Axe but nicknamed the Gherkin, and was put up for sale by previous co-owners Evans Randall and German firm IVG after the companies had defaulted on borrowings.

In a statement, Safra Group said: "The acquisition of 30 St Mary Axe is consistent with our real estate strategy of investing in properties that are truly special – at the best locations within great cities.

"While only 10 years old, this building is already a London icon that is distinguished from others in the market, with excellent value growth potential. We intend to make the building even better and more desirable through active ownership that will lead to a range of enhancements that will benefit tenants."

30 St Mary Axe - The Gherkin

  • Opened: April 2004
  • Cost: £138 million, plus land cost of £91 million
  • Owners: Safra
  • Architect: Foster and Partners
  • Height: 180m
  • Floors: 41
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