If we talk about the most historical and metropolitan cities of India, Kolkata is one of them. Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal, is a one-stop destination for those who love architecture, painting, art, and culture. Kolkata has so far managed to retain its heritage. The stunning architecture of the city can be seen in the many structures located here. While many big buildings have been built in the race of modernity, even today many old buildings in Kolkata express their own stories. Today we are telling you about some famous old buildings located in Kolkata.
Writers Building
This iconic building was first opened to the public in 1780. Writers Building B.B.D. The garden is located in what was formerly known as Dalhousie Square. The building was home to the offices of the Chief Minister of West Bengal and other state officials. It is now the secretariat building of the state government, but earlier it used to be the house of the junior clerk of the East India Company. Most of the important offices have been shifted to a new building. A statue of the Roman goddess Minerva is installed at the top of the building.
Victoria Memorial
Victoria Memorial is a very grand monument. It was built in memory of Queen Victoria. The Victoria Memorial was opened to the public as a museum in 1921. Spread over 64 acres, this museum houses many artifacts, arms and ammunition, portraits of Queen Victoria, and many rare books. The museum has 25 galleries. The architecture of the monument is one of the best designs in the world. It was designed by British architect William Emerson.
Marble Palace
A beautiful and elegant building with marble walls and floors, it was built by Raja Rajendra Malik, a Bengali businessman. Built in neoclassical style, the building features open courtyards common in traditional Bengali architecture. Today it houses many Victorian paintings and more. You need prior permission before entering the building as it is a private residence.
Jorasanko Thakur Bari
The palatial home of the Tagore family is today a museum. Rabindranath Tagore was born in this house. Most of the members of the Tagore family at that time ranged from artists to high officials, thinkers, intellectuals, and writers. Rabindranath Tagore's second eldest brother, Satyendranath Tagore, was the first Indian to join the civil service. Whereas, his father Debendranath Tagore was a religious reformer and philosopher, as well as the founder of Brahmo religion.
Belur Math
Belur Math is the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Mission established by Swami Vivekananda. A blend of various elements such as Hindu, Islamic, Buddhist, and Christian art and motifs can be seen in the architecture of the monastery. The idea behind the use of different elements of art is to convey the message of unity among all religions. Belur Math is spread over an area of 40 acres and is surrounded by a lush green campus. This monastery is situated on the west side of the Hooghly River. It is situated on the sea coast. The 20th-century Belur Monastery is an important spiritual center of India.
Sovabazar Rajbari
Sovabazar Rajbari is another iconic heritage building that is a must-visit, especially during Durga Puja. It is one of the oldest royal houses in Bengal. Built by King Nabakrishna, the building is famous for its grand Durga Puja celebrations and also for preserving Bengali culture and tradition at a time when European culture dominated the country and the city.
Star Theater
Built-in 1883, it is one of the first commercial cinema halls in Kolkata. Let us tell you, the first Bengali motion picture was screened here and despite a fire that destroyed half the building, most of its parts have been restored by the Kolkata Municipal Corporation. The interior of the building is quite contemporary. Dramatic performances are still performed here two days a week.
Dakshineswar Kali Temple
Dakshineswar Kali Temple was built in 1847 by Rani Rashmoni, a landowner and philanthropist. The temple of Goddess Kali is an important cultural and religious center of Kolkata. Maa Bhavatarini, the incarnation of Maa Kali, is worshiped in the temple. Thousands of devotees from all over the country come to this temple spread over 25 acres every day. This temple is situated in Dakshineswar and hence it is known as Dakshineswar Kali Temple.
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