The Victoria Memorial is located in Kolkata, India. It is a memorial of Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom who was also given the title of Empress of India. It currently serves as a museum and a tourist attraction. The memorial was designed by Sir William Emerson in an architectural style similar to Belfast City Hall. The work of construction was entrusted to Messers Martin & Co. of
Calcutta.

In January 1901 after the death of Queen Victoria, Lord Curzon, who was then Viceroy of India, placed before the public the question of setting up a fitting memorial to the Queen. He suggested that the most suitable memorial would be a “stately”, spacious, monumental and grand building surrounded by a wide beautiful garden.The princes and people of India responded generously to his appeal for funds and the total cost of construction of this monument which
amounted to one crore, five lakhs of rupees, was entirely derived from their voluntary subscriptions

Built between 1906 and 1921, it is a majestic and attractive white marble building at the southern end of the Maidan and surrounded by a sprawling garden. A black statue of Angel of Victory, holding a bugle in her hand was placed at the apex of the dome above the Memorial. It is fixed to its pedestal with ball bearings and acts as a weathercock when the wind is too strong enough.

The Victoria Memorial Hall was opened in 1921 for the normal public. People from the local place and also outsiders could see before them pictures and statues of men who played a prominent part in the history of India and develop a pride in their past especially in relation to the history of Calcutta. Lord Curzon conceived it. Presently it is the finest and most prominent building and art museum of Calcutta, India, under the Department of Culture, Government of India.

The monument has become so famous that the city of Kolkata is identified by the name of Victoria Memorial. A great number of films also have been shot here. In the night the lightings of the building gives an impression of golden heaven. There are also a number of people who come into the garden for their morning and evening walks. Children also come on their holidays and have a good time.

Share This