Victoria Memorial
East India Region
The Victoria Memorial is a majestic white marble monument located in the Maidan area of central Kolkata, India. Built between 1906 and 1921 during the British Raj, it commemorates Queen Victoria, Empress of India from 1876 to 1901. Designed by architect William Emerson in the Indo-Saracenic style, the memorial combines British, Mughal, Venetian, Egyptian, and Deccani architectural elements. The structure, constructed of white Makrana marble, features a large central dome inspired by the Taj Mahal, surrounded by subsidiary domes and intricately sculpted chattris. The memorial stands within expansive 26-hectare gardens designed by Lord Redesdale and David Penn. Today, it functions as a museum and cultural center, housing over 3,000 artifacts including paintings, sculptures, rare books, and historical relics related to Indian history from the 18th to 20th centuries. Its galleries include the Royal Gallery, National Leaders’ Gallery, and Durbar Hall, among others. The Victoria Memorial is one of Kolkata's most popular tourist attractions and a symbol of the city's colonial heritage and artistic grandeur.
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Astuce: The Victoria Memorial is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM, and closed on Mondays. The best time to visit is during the cooler months from November to February to comfortably explore the gardens and galleries. Advance ticket purchase is recommended to avoid queues, and concessions are available for students and senior citizens. Guided tours and audio guides are offered to enrich the visitor experience. Photography is permitted in most areas but flash and tripods may be restricted. Visitors should wear comfortable footwear for extensive walking in the gardens and galleries.
Faits intéressants
- •It is the largest monument dedicated to a monarch anywhere in the world.
- •The central dome was deliberately designed to be larger than that of the Taj Mahal.
- •The memorial houses the largest single collection of works by artists Thomas and William Daniell.
- •The gardens around the memorial cover 26 hectares and were designed by prominent British landscape architects.
- •The statue atop the central dome is the 16-foot tall Angel of Victory.
- •The memorial was funded entirely by voluntary donations from Indian princes, politicians, and people during the British Raj.
Histoire
The idea for the Victoria Memorial was proposed by Lord Curzon, Viceroy of India, shortly after Queen Victoria's death in 1901 to honor her memory and promote loyalist sentiment.
The foundation stone was laid by the Prince of Wales in 1906, and construction was completed in 1921.
The total cost, approximately one crore five lakhs rupees, was raised through voluntary subscriptions from Indian princes, politicians, and citizens.
Initially intended as a monument in the capital city of Calcutta, the memorial's prominence shifted when the capital moved to New Delhi in 1911.
Post-independence, the memorial has been maintained as a museum and cultural site, with some additions made after 1947.
Guide du lieu
Royal Gallery
This gallery displays portraits and memorabilia related to Queen Victoria and British royalty, including paintings by Frank Salisbury depicting key moments from Victoria's life.
National Leaders' Gallery
Exhibits portraits and artifacts related to Indian freedom fighters and national leaders, highlighting their contributions to India's history.
Durbar Hall
A grand hall used for official ceremonies during the British era, showcasing elaborate architecture and historical artifacts.
Gardens
Spanning 26 hectares, the gardens surround the memorial with landscaped lawns, statues of British governors-general and Indian dignitaries, and peaceful walking paths.
Contact
Téléphone: 033 2223 1890