Victoria Memorial in Kolkata – let’s get to know the facts !
The City of Joy, Kolkata, is surrounded by beauty, culture, and art. It also holds immense emotion, which beautifully reflects the charm and elegance of this spectacular city. Besides, the place has several hidden treasures for travelers to explore. One of the most iconic places in Kolkata is the Victoria Memorial Hall.
It was built in memory of Queen Victoria to celebrate her 25 years of rule over India. Lord Curzon, the Viceroy of India, had proposed the idea of its construction. It also served as a tribute to the success of the British empire in India.
History & Location
In 1906, Prince of Wales laid the foundation of the Victoria Memorial. Afterwards, it was built partly by Lord Curzon, the British Government and some of the Indian princes too. William Emerson had designed the outlay of the monument, and Martin & Co. of Calcutta did the construction work.
The Victoria Memorial is enormous; the building is 338 feet (103m) by 228 feet (69m) and rises to the height of 184 feet (56m). Besides, the houses and garden are spread over an area of 64 acres. Moreover, the beautiful garden will amaze you by its greenery and the trees. The place was unlocked for the public on December 1921. It is in the heart of Kolkata, West Bengal.
Architecture & Few Possessions
This magnificent structure is made of Makrana marble. Furthermore, the famous hall has a design of Indo-Saracenic style, which is a blend of British and Mughal architectural style. It is one of the finest art museums in Kolkata and has many things to showcase including paintings from British rule and other artifacts. One can also find maps, textiles, sculpture, old weapons, stamps and coins. Besides, portraits of Queen and Prince Albert, are there to explore. Several paintings which depict the life of Queen Victoria are also available in the gallery. It is helpful for researchers and students who intend to know about preserved ancient things.
In addition, the house contains few possessions of the Queen, such as her writing desk, chair, and scrapbook. Also, a bit of a rare collection of books is there to showcase. Like the Masterpiece of William Shakespeare and Rubaiyat by Omar Khayyam. Besides, a statue of Queen Victoria with bronze is present on the marble staircase at the entrance. Few more statues are there like Dalhousie, Hasting, Curzon, and Edward VII.
Angel of Victory –
In addition, an eye-catching attraction of the Victoria Memorial is the Angel of Victory, which rotates when the winds blow strongly. Several sculptures are also there in and around the dome. It includes architecture, motherhood, justice, charity, art, learning and prudence. Still, the place reflects a beautiful British aura.
Visiting Timings –
People can visit the place and explore it. From adults to teens, families to friends, Victoria Memorial holds a special place for everyone in society. Besides, it is one of the best tourist destinations in Kolkata. It remained a favorite spot for family and friends as well. The look at night makes it more beautiful because of the lighting.
• Timing – Morning 5:30 am to 6:30 pm evening.
Other essential information-
Victoria Memorial remains closed on Independence Day, Id-IL-fitr, Holi, Gandhi Jayanti, Dussehra, and Christmas.
Entry fee-
• For foreigners is Rs 500 per head.
• For Indians is Rs 30 per head.
• Besides, Entry is Free for the students uniformed up to 12 years of age, and also for uniformed army officers
Trivia-
• Lord Curzon had built Victoria Memorial between 1906 to 1921 in the memory of Queen Victoria.
• It contains museums and a beautiful garden.
• Besides, the house contains Queen Victoria chair, scrapbook, and a writing desk.
• Moreover, the museum itself contains coins, manuscripts, textiles, old weapons, and stamps.
• The portrait of Queen and Prince Albert are also on display.
• Few rare collections of books as there. Like Masterpiece of William Shakespeare and Rubaiyat by Omar.
• Furthermore, the museums display statues and beautiful gardens.
• It is beneficial for the students to research the ancient time.
