Victoria Memorial Information | Photos | Location

The Victoria Memorial, an iconic landmark located in Kolkata, India, stands as a tribute to Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom. Constructed between 1906 and 1921, this majestic marble structure is a symbol of British colonial architecture and has become one of the most celebrated historical monuments in India. It is renowned for its architectural grandeur, historical significance, and as a cultural center that offers insight into the British era in India.

Victoria Memorial is the iconic building of Kolkata, viewed over the water feature surrounding it. This immaculate building is testimonial to the city's colonial past. Victoria Memorial, a monument exhibiting regal beauty and elegance was built between 1906 and 1921. The monument, located in Kolkata, is now a museum and a celebrated picnic destination. The Product of Viceroy George Curzon’s innovative thinking, the monument was built in Memory of the British Empress, Queen Victoria. It aims to keep the Colonialist history of India alive. Now this building is also a museum which focuses on the visual history of Calcutta.

Historical Background

The construction of Victoria Memorial was commissioned by the then British Viceroy of India, Lord Curzon, in honor of Queen Victoria, who passed away in 1901. Designed by Sir William Emerson, the memorial was completed in 1921 and was intended to commemorate the Queen's reign and her contributions to India. The building’s design reflects the influence of the British Raj and serves as a reminder of the historical connection between India and the United Kingdom.

Architectural Design

Overview

The Victoria Memorial is a stunning example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, combining elements from Indian, European, and Islamic styles. The structure is built from white Makrana marble and is set amidst lush gardens, creating an imposing yet elegant presence.

The white palatial memorial exhibits a blend of Indo-Saracenic and Revivalist styles of Architecture. It was designed by a talented architect William Emerson. The 64-acre garden, surrounding the monument, was designed by the Scottish physician and botanist Sir David Prain and Lord Risdale. A bronze statue, known as “Victorias Angel”, which is 4.8 meters in height, crowns the monument.

Key Features

• Dome and Central Pavilion: The central feature of the memorial is its large dome, which rises to a height of 58 meters and is adorned with a bronze statue of Victory. The dome is flanked by four smaller domes and a series of pavilions, contributing to the monument's grandeur.

• Facade and Sculptures: The exterior of the memorial is embellished with intricate sculptures and reliefs that depict various aspects of British India’s history and culture. The façade features a blend of Victorian and Mughal architectural elements, with ornate carvings and detailed stonework.

• Gardens and Surroundings: The memorial is surrounded by expansive gardens that include fountains, statues, and lush lawns. The gardens are meticulously maintained and provide a serene environment for visitors to explore.

Exhibits and Museums

Historical Artifacts

The Victoria Memorial houses a museum with an extensive collection of historical artifacts, paintings, and manuscripts related to the British Raj and Indian history. Notable exhibits include portraits of British monarchs, memorabilia from the colonial era, and documents related to Queen Victoria's reign.

The museum contains a large collection of memorabilia associated with Queen Victoria and Britain’s Imperial Rule in India. It houses remarkable collections of paintings, artefacts, weapons, textiles, coins, books, statues, and stamps among others and maintains few possessions of the Queen like her writing desk and chair and scrapbooks. In total there are 25 galleries like the Royal Gallery and the Sculpture Gallery. There’s also a Calcutta gallery which reflects the development of yesteryear Calcutta. The Royal Gallery at Victoria Memorial still has original oil paintings from that era, which take you to those times.

Art Gallery

The memorial also features an art gallery that showcases a variety of paintings, sculptures, and artworks from the colonial period. The gallery provides visitors with a visual representation of the artistic achievements of the time and the cultural exchanges between India and Britain.

Audio-Visual Presentations

To enhance the visitor experience, the Victoria Memorial offers audio-visual presentations that provide detailed information about the monument's history, architecture, and significance. These presentations help visitors gain a deeper understanding of the memorial and its historical context.

Apart from brushing up their History and spending some leisure time in the gardens, tourists could also entertain themselves by watching the sound and light show and if lucky they may able to take a ride on a chariot.

Visitor Information

Timings and Entry Fees

The Victoria Memorial is open to visitors every day except Mondays. The usual visiting hours are from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Entry fees are reasonable, with separate rates for Indian and foreign tourists. Special charges may apply for photography and guided tours.

How to Reach Victoria Memorial

• By Metro: The nearest metro station is Maidan Metro Station, located about 1 kilometer from the memorial. A short walk or rickshaw ride from the station will bring you to the entrance.

• By Road: The Victoria Memorial is well-connected by road, with ample parking available for visitors. Taxis, auto-rickshaws, and public buses provide convenient transportation options.

• By Air: The nearest airport is Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, situated approximately 17 kilometers from the memorial. From the airport, visitors can hire taxis or use public transportation to reach the site.

The Victoria Memorial is not just a monument but a testament to the historical and architectural legacy of the British era in India. Its grandeur, combined with its rich historical and cultural significance, makes it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts, tourists, and anyone interested in exploring India's colonial past. A visit to the Victoria Memorial offers a unique opportunity to connect with the heritage and history of Kolkata and the British Raj.