Many of these constructions were large concrete tower blocks, however many have undergone renovation in recent years to make them more sympathetic to the surrounding area.
There are at least 30 venues catering to gay mainstream and specific tastes including: leather, drag, cabaret, sport, cruising and men/women only.
Each year in the second week of May, one of the largest gay pride festivals in Europe is held in and around the Yumbo Centre.
In 2013, a fire broke out in the early hours of the morning during the Pride event, causing much damage to the southern section of the centre, affecting Cruise, Amigos, Chez Funnyboys and Ricky's Showbar.
The cause of the fire is unknown but was rumored at the time to be an arson attack by an aggrieved staff member.