Writers’ Building in Kolkata is an iconic location and serves as the secretariat for State Government of West Bengal. Situated along Lal Dighi in B.B.D Bagh, its original purpose was to house junior writers of British East India Company.
Established in 1816, this is one of India’s oldest and largest museums. With multiple sections covering everything from fossils to Egypt, its collection spans decades.
Victoria Memorial
As a beautiful tribute to Queen Victoria, the Victorian Memorial is an impressive architectural marvel that features an intriguing blend of styles and influences. Boasting domes, towers, pillars, arches, balconies and terraces that provide captivating visual effects, it creates an impressive visual impact when seen from any angle.
This beautiful architectural landmark was completed in 1906 and boasts exquisitely maintained green gardens that attract visitors from across the world.
Victoria Memorial should be on any history or culture buff’s bucket list. Its gallery holds artifacts and paintings that date back centuries; plus there are various cultural events hosted there regularly; take the Kolkata metro to Maidan station before walking a few minutes to Victoria Memorial.
Writers’ Building
The Writers’ Building in Kolkata’s historic Dalhousie Square (now BBD Bagh) once served as the main administrative office for writers (junior clerks) of the British East India Company and was designed and constructed in 1777 by Thomas Lyon. Following India’s independence, it served as the state secretariat of Bengal.
This striking building showcases an eclectic combination of Neo-Gothic and Indo-Saracenic architectural styles. Additionally, statues serve as silent witnesses of its rich historical narratives unfolded within its walls.
The building became most famous when three freedom fighters assassinated a British colonel here in 1930 – since then it has served as a symbol of resistance against British government oppression and now houses offices for Chief Ministers and Cabinet Ministers in West Bengal.
Maghen David Synagogue
The Magen David Synagogue in Kolkata stands out among other Jewish houses of worship for its extravagant architecture and impressive clock tower. Dubbed as “Shield of David”, it was constructed at the sole expense of real estate magnate Elias David Joseph Ezra to honour his late father Elias David Joseph Ezra – it features red church-like exterior architecture with its tower soaring to 42 metres high tower adorning Pollock Street skyline.
Interiors of Neveh Shalome are striking, featuring ornate pillars and beautiful stained glass. Though it doesn’t draw in tourists as much anymore, its significance as a reminder of Kolkata’s vibrant history should still not be neglected. Originally located on the site of a prayer hall built by Baghdadi Jews (originally standing on Neveh Shalome’s original location Neveh Shalome stood), at one time this congregation reached approximately 6,000 strong but has since declined dramatically over time.
Beth El Synagogue
Beth El Synagogue stands as an important symbol of Jewish culture in Kolkata, reflecting its heritage and heritage. Built by two Baghdadi Jews: David Joseph Ezra and Ezekiel Judah in 1856, its architecture shows influences both from British architecture as well as classical traditional Baghdadi Jewish designs.
Most Baghdadi Jews came to India temporarily or seasonally between 1800 and 1830 in order to capitalize on India’s flourishing commerce, becoming relatively successful businesspeople as well as social members, creating an atmosphere of tolerance in their local communities they joined.
Pity the poor historic building which has fallen victim to illegal vendors. Boundary walls and impressive gates have been infiltrated making entrance more difficult.
Mother House
Mother House, founded in 1950 with the purpose of offering selfless service to the poorest among us, attracts thousands of visitors annually as an act of pilgrimage.
Visitors come to Mother (now Saint) Teresa’s tomb and small room where she lived from 1953-1997; both are kept in simple conditions for visitors’ visitation. Pilgrim groups also gather daily in her memory in the chapel for mass, which features nuns and volunteers celebrating daily in her honor.
New Market, marked by an elegant colonial clocktower, is home to handicraft vendors during the day and an artistic and musical haven by night – truly one of Kolkata’s most serene and peaceful spots!
