Information on Victoria Memorial (Kolkata, West Bengal) - History & Architecture

Victoria Memorial is one of the most attractive innovations in Kolkata of West Bengal. It was created in order to memorialise the peak period of British sovereignty in India. The groundwork of Victoria Memorial was placed by the Prince of Wales in the year 1906 and it was installed in the year 1921 according to the memory of Queen Victoria of England. The entire construction has taken about 15 years to complete.

Victoria Memorial Kolkata Architecture

Victoria Memorial characterises an exclusive blend of classical European architecture and Mughal themes. Victoria Memorial was created with white marbles, namely Markana which was bought from Jodhpur. The roof of the building is created by bronze and it represents victory of English people. Surrounding the roof are various symbolic statuaries comprising art, justice, and contributions. The building is about 184 feet high and expands around 64 acres of land, including grasslands, ponds, bushes and herbaceous boundaries. At the top of the building, there is a 16 feet high bronze sculpture, attached on ball bearing which rotates according to wind. The entry arcs of Victoria Memorial sore through two high rows covered by triumphant angel.

The architecture of Victoria Memorial was conceptualised by Curzon, the then Viceroy of India and afterwards, it was designed by renowned designer William Emerson. The design is based on Indo-Saracenic revivalist architecture which blends the best of British design with Islamic style. Furthermore, the design of Victoria Memorial is also swayed by Venetian, Egyptian and Deccanni architecture. Basically, the design of the building is quite similar to the Belfast City Hall. It also has certain resemblance with Taj Mahal.

Victoria Memorial also holds a museum, possessing significant collection of mementos of the queen, paintings of the British era and various other exhibitions. It also has famous collection of weapons, sculptors, maps, coins, stamps, articles and fabric among others. At night, the entire structure of Victoria Memorial is illuminated, providing it a fairy tale appearance. One key aspect regarding the creation of Victoria Memorial is that the construction was solely funded by the British government.

Victoria Memorial KolkataHistory

The history of Victoria Memorial has its origins in the colonial era of Indian history. On that time, Curzon ruled India in the designation of Crown during the period of 1899 to 1905. He covertly cherished the dream of creating a superb edifice which not only compliment to English rulers, but also create a unique position in the Indian architectural history. After the demise of British ruler, Queen Victoria, Curzon took the opportunity for establishing the memorial of his dream. He recommended the construction of Victoria Memorial in the core of a garden as a part of British memory. He also recommended creation of a museum in the same area, which can house objects relating to British rulers. In later phase, The Prince of Wales as well as King George had bring the dream into reality in 1906.

Victoria Memorial Kolkata Tourism Importance

Victoria memorial is a key tourist destination in Kolkata. Its royal, vivacious, massive and grand structure bounded by beautiful garden is regarded as significant place for tourist attraction. Furthermore, travellers can also enjoy the museum which illustrates the colonial history of India. In the night, the lighting of the palace along with attractive appearance can be enjoyed by the tourists. At present, Victoria Memorial is considered as one of the few well-maintained heritage sites which remains in India, making it worthwhile to visit.