VICTORIA MEMORIAL

ARCHITECTURAL WONDER OF KOLKATA - VICTORIA MEMORIAL

I might not be wrong if I call it the Taj Mahal of Kolkata. That's the first thing that comes to my mind whenever I look at this grand monument made of white marble. its one of the finest piece of architecture found in Kolkata.

The architect of this artistic masterpiece was William Emerson (1843–1924). He was the president of the Royal Institute of British Architect.

Located at the heart of the city, it was built during the period of 1906 - 1921. It was built to commemorate the peak of the British Empire in India. At the same time it also immortalize the memory of Queen Victoria, whose 43 years of reign was the foundation on which this monument was built.

northen gate 

The Victoria Memorial is actually a museum that is a house to some rare pictures and statutes of prominent people from history (I am sure everyone has read their names in their respective history textbooks).it also exhibits some of the most valuable articles of Indian history like the dagger of Tipu Sultan, a cannon used in battle of Plassey, rare books that dates back to 1870, manuscripts like the Ain-i-Akhbari by Abul Fazal, rare postage stamps and paintings by western artists depicting the time they have capture through their brushes. 

Not to forget the famed Rosewood piano.

Unfortunately camera is not allowed inside the museum (an universal phenomena), so I cannot visually support my description. So you have to go on and check it out for yourself.

statue of queen victoria

The Victoria Memorial is situated on Maidan (meaning 'grounds' in bengali) and by the river Hooghly. 

southern gate of victoria memorial

The building is 338 feet (103 m) by 228 feet (69 m) and rises to a height of 184 feet (56 m). It is constructed of white Markana (the same type of marble which was used for the construction of taj mahal) marble.

Victoria memorial is an elegant example of the Indo - Saracenic Revival style. The fountain-head of this style of architecture were british architects in the 19th century. this style of architecture is a strange concoction of Indo - Islamic, British, Venetian, Egyptian and Deccani influences. also some elements of gothic revival and neo - classical style may also be observed.

The Dome

Victoria memorial is a pride of kolkata. Its not only one of the most favourite tourist destination but also the favourite hang out place for the kolkatans.

The Angel Of Victory

This monument is the testimony of rich history of not only the British rule in India but it is also inclusive of the Indian culture and architectural wonders.

The Minar

If I have to explain Victoria memorial in one word then it has to be awe- inspiring.

It never fails to surprise me. Every time I visit, I find a new dimension to this grand and spacious masterpiece.