Victoria Memorial

Maybe the only cultural place worth visiting in Kolkata. Only a couple of hallas are allowed to visit inside, one having a wonderful collection of paintings. Surroundings are poorly maintained, statues are covered in birds' discharges and grass is already deteriorated from a huge number of tourists.

Victoria Memorial, a majestic white marble edifice situated in the middle of 64 acres (25 ha) of sprawling gardens, dominating the centre of the Kolkata, India. Architecturally, it seems to reflect contemporary British civic classicism, but there are deliberate Eastern references as well.

The Victoria Memorial was conceived by Lord Curzon as a fitting monument to Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom following her death in 1901. He organized funding for the project from within India and commissioned William Emerson, one of the leading British architects of the day, to design the edifice for the centre of the city that was then the capital of British India. The prince of Wales  (later King George V) laid the cornerstone on January 4,1906, and, after lengthy construction work, the building was formally opened on December 28,1921.

The marble used to construct the building comes from the same Makrana quarries in Rajasthan that were used for the construction of the Taj Mahal, and the corner domes are faintly Mughal in style. The whole composition is crowned by a bronze statue of the Angel of Victory that stands 16 feet (4.9 m) high; though not a true weather vane, it rotates when the wind is strong enough.

The sides of the memorial are linked by open colonnades and in the south entrance, approached through a triumphal archway commemorating King Edward VII, there is a statue of Lord Curzon himself. The entrance hall contains bronze busts and marble statues of royal figures, and the walls are decorated with murals showing scenes from Queen Victoria’s life and texts from her imperial proclamations. The interior rooms display important collections of paintings, sculpture,  artifacts, books, and manuscripts, all relating to royalty and empire.

Great Architecture, Marvelous British Structure built with Marble stone, a 100 years old building.well maintained Gardens.
Garden entry fee 20 Rs, Memorial 30 Rs per adult.close timing of Memorial by 6 PM and outside Park

The Victoria Memorial is a large marble building on the Maidan in Central Kolkata. It was built between 1906 and 1921 by the Government of India. It is dedicated to the memory of Victoria, Empress of India from 1876 to 1901. It is the largest monument to a monarch anywhere in the world, it stands in 64 acres of gardens and is now a museum under the control of the Ministry of Culture.
The architect of the Victoria Memorial was William Emerson (1843–1924). The design is in the Indo-Saracenic revivalist style which uses a mixture of British and Mughal elements with Venetian, Egyptian, Deccani architectural influences. The building is 338 by 228 feet (103 by 69 m) and rises to a height of 184 feet (56 m). It is constructed of white Makrana marble.
The Victoria Memorial is built of white Makrana marble. In design it echoes the Taj Mahal with its dome, four subsidiaries, octagonal-domed chattris, high portals, terrace, and domed corner towers. (Source - Wikipedia)

My Review -
A Makrana marble place with celestial garden absolute phenomenal.
There's the Victoria Memorial,
Built as a Memorial to Victoria.

The Victoria Memorial is a grand marble building in Kolkata (formerly Calcutta), India. Here's a brief description:

1. **Purpose**: It was built between 1906 and 1921 to commemorate Queen Victoria's 25-year reign in India.

2. **Architecture**: The memorial is an exemplary piece of Indo-Saracenic revivalist architecture. It combines British, Mughal, and other Indian architectural elements.

3. **Material**: Made primarily of white Makrana marble, which gives it a radiant appearance.

4. **Features**: The building is surrounded by lush gardens and a large reflecting pond. Atop the central dome stands the "Angel of Victory", a statue that rotates with the wind.

5. **Inside**: The memorial houses a museum with a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and manuscripts from the British colonial period. It also showcases the history and culture of Kolkata and the broader Indian subcontinent during that era.

6. **Location**: It's situated in the heart of the city and is considered one of Kolkata's most iconic landmarks.

Overall, the Victoria Memorial stands as a testament to both the British colonial era in India and the architectural prowess of the period.

The Victoria Memorial is an architectural masterpiece built between 1906 and 1921. It was designed by Sir William Emerson in the Indo-Saracenic revivalist style, which combines various architectural influences, including British, Mughal, and Venetian.
The memorial was built in memory of Queen Victoria, who was the Queen of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland from 1837 to 1901. It is now a museum and a popular tourist attraction.
The memorial is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens. The gardens are a popular spot for visitors to relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

The Victoria Memorial in Kolkata is a magnificent architectural masterpiece and a testament to the city's rich colonial history. Here's a review of this iconic landmark:

**Historical Grandeur**: The Victoria Memorial stands as an impressive symbol of British colonial rule in India. Its stunning white marble structure, designed in the Indo-Saracenic style, transports visitors to a bygone era. The grandeur and historical significance of this monument are awe-inspiring.

**Impeccable Architecture**: The architectural brilliance of the Victoria Memorial is undeniable. Its intricately detailed facade, massive central dome, and elegant gardens showcase the craftsmanship of the time. The museum's design and layout are both impressive and educational.

**Museum and Exhibitions**: The interior of the memorial houses a remarkable museum that preserves and exhibits India's colonial history. The galleries inside are filled with paintings, sculptures, artifacts, and historical documents. They provide an insightful journey through India's colonial past, making it an educational experience.

**Lush Gardens**: Surrounding the memorial, the beautifully maintained gardens provide a peaceful oasis in the midst of the bustling city. It's an ideal place for a leisurely stroll, picnics, or simply relaxing amidst the greenery.

**Light and Sound Show**: The evening light and sound show at Victoria Memorial is a captivating experience. It narrates the history of the monument and the era it represents, set against the backdrop of the illuminated memorial.

**Cultural Hub**: The memorial often hosts cultural events and exhibitions, further enriching its appeal. It's a hub for art, history, and cultural enthusiasts.

**Accessibility**: The central location of Victoria Memorial makes it easily accessible for both tourists and locals. It's a short walk from various other attractions in the city.

In summary, the Victoria Memorial in Kolkata is not just a monument; it's a symbol of the city's heritage and an educational treasure trove. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or simply seeking a serene place to escape the city's hustle and bustle, a visit to this iconic landmark is a must. It's a testament to the fusion of cultures and histories that define Kolkata, and it continues to captivate visitors from around the world.

Great historical place but because of some restrictions for foreigners, foreigners can't visit this place properly

If you are history and nature lover than this is the best place for visit. You will also enjoy Gardens around surroundings. Here you will learn about history of Kolkata. Eagerly waiting to visit with my family soon.

Excellent place to visit with your family or friends. You need to buy ticket to enter there.

I visited today on 12 February
Currently there is international webinar, seminar is ongoing about our freedom fighter Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and his INA.
Queen gallery, Arm and Armor galary, historical gallery is temporarily not available to visit / excursion.

Good for an evening leisure trip. The museums have great collection of docs and pics of Netaji.

Its nice place in kolkata, very peaceful and history of netaji subhas chandra bose and quine Victoria.

Great place in kolkata surrounded by greenaries and artificial pools. The marvelous architecture will surely blow your mind. The museum inside the memorial is great too all the antiques and images are well maintained and the interior art works are fabulous.

Across the garden there are too many seating arrangements where you can spend times with your friends family and loved ones. There is free wifi throughout the premises. Even the costs is budget friendly and there is no prohibition regarding photography and videography.

Victoria Memorial is one of the most beautiful historical heritage. Victoria Memorial is one of the important historical heritage of the whole of India along with Kolkata. Victoria Memorial is one of the important tourist places in India. The beautiful view of the Victoria Memorial and its surroundings will charm you

When in Kolkata, visit the Victoria Memorial! Walk the beautiful garden and / or take back yourself in time through the (Museum) times of British. Raj and Calcutta.

It is one of the beautiful White marble Monument of Kolkata, West Bengal, India. Main tourist attraction centre in Kolkata, the beauty of white marble tomb can take the heart of anyone.

One of the landmark structures of Kolkata. Built in memory for queen Victoria over the span of 15 years from 1906-1921. Built completely in Makrana marble mined in Rajasthan. It comprises a memorial building and museums. Museums explain about the history of Kolkata and British colonial exploits over them. Total atmosphere is very calm and peaceful with meadows and lakes around it. Worth to spend a day with your family. It requires a entry ticket which is very minimal. Must visit place in Kolkata.

The Victoria Memorial is a large marble building in Kolkata, West Bengal, India, which was built between 1906 and 1921. It is dedicated to the memory of Queen Victoria (1819–1901) and is now a museum and tourist destination under the auspices of the Ministry of Culture. [2] The memorial lies on the Maidan (grounds) by the bank of the Hooghly River, near Jawaharlal Nehru Road (better known as Chowringhee Road).

A beautiful place, place for tourists also.statues for different british lords and queen victoria can be seen.

Good place to hangout either with friends family, European architecture there is a museum inside where you can see some antique items with statue of queen Victoria
There is a garden attached to it
Before oanademic evening musical events use to take place
Nice place for day outing no food available inside but outside you get street foods
One should visit to see the architecture works of British
There is entry fees

Currently theme is changed in Victoria memorial. Now everything is about neta ji Subhash chnadra bose. All material inside museum is changed

This place is freaking awesome. The architecture is marvellous. Museum is a must visiting place if you are in kolkata and the park outside is for relaxing and clicking pictures.

Victoria memorial palace is an excellent place of the old history. It's a very big area with park and benches for sit out. We can enjoy the park around. It's amazing construction it's an amazing construction may be with marbles. This place can be easily reached by auto rickshaws and buses as well. Rather than the palace visitors we can find more lovers here. This is the place we must visit when we visit kolkata. The government has maintained it very be well.

An attempt of the British to create a replica of Taj Mahal in the honour of the Queen, the Victoria Memorial in Kolkata is an imposing monument of glittering white marble in an oasis of green. Recognized as the symbol of Kolkata, this monument houses a museum displaying British memorabilia and knick knacks from the time of the Raj.

Enjoy a momentous sunrise at the sprawling gardens here or witness a romantic sunset with a loved one or simply come here with your family to enjoy a Light and Sound Show in the evenings! Don’t forget to take your camera along for awesome pictures by the Lord Curzon statue, King Edward Statue and Queen Victoria Statue.

A tourist’s favourite in Kolkata, every night the setting sun witnesses the dancing musical fountain in front of the Victoria Memorial in the Citizen Park. Be awed by the swaying jets of water lit in colourful hues and fascinated by the aesthetic quotient of these fountains. One of the unique features in Kolkata, this musical fountain is equally mesmerising for both adults and kids

Awesome place. Specially for the year 2021 all the historical articrafts of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose of Pre independence period are displayed now.

Beautifully maintained place. Beautiful gardens and ponds surrounding the white marble monument. Some of the sculptures are fabulous.

The Victoria Memorial is a large marble building in Kolkata, West Bengal, India, which was built between 1906 and 1921. It is dedicated to the memory of Empress Victoria, and is now a museum under the auspices of the Ministry of Culture. [2] The memorial lies on the Maidan. Established
1921;100 years ago
Location
Jawaharlal Nehru Road, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
Type
Museum
Collection size
Nearly 30,000 (31 March 2009) [1]
Architect
William Emerson, Vincent Esch

As we all know, Victoria memorial is a great historical architecture. It is an amazing experience to visit the museum. It enriched my knowledge very much. It is also a great photogenic place and hence draws the attention of many photographers. There is a security check at the entrance which ensures the security of the visitors. The reflection of the museum on the lake provides great photographs to the visitors. I would definitely recommend you to visit Victoria memorial at least once if you ever come to Kolkata.

A lovey place to go to. Victoria Memorial is one of the famous and beautiful monuments of Kolkata. It was built between 1906 and 1921 to commemorate Queen Victoria's 25-year reign in India. After the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857, the British government gathered the reins of control of the country directly, and in 1876 the British parliament made Victoria the Empress of India. Her reign ended with her death in 1901. Only 20 rupees to enter the garden area. Although entry to the museum needs another ticket from the counter. Overall very clear and very beautiful. Kudos to the maintenance. I had gone there during the day and mostly found tourists and couples hanging out there. And since the pandemic, it's not that crowded now. You can easily sit on the benches provided or walk around in the garden maintaining social distance. This is also a good place to chill and relax.

Probably the most visited place in Kolkata by the tourists. The entry fees is not that high its just INR20rs. It very clean from inside and the care takers make sure their is no littering done by the people. Local people also go for morning walk here, and many people go to have fun and click pictures.

Nice ambience. Take some time out of busy schedule and get a dive into the history of British raj in Calcutta. The gallery was awesome. So many weapons, pictures to get info of.

A great historical place to go with family in kolkata, highly maintained the garden it's supper clean, The ponds are heart of the garden, kids can play in the garden, and it's also known for lovers point, The Garden open early in the morning 5: 30 the early entry fee only 20 rs. Museum open from 11 am
I add some snapshots

You can't but appreciate the beauty of this place, many people come to spend some quality time here.

Loved it.great place for an early morning jog or a late evening walk.awesome ambience.amidst the beauty of the Victoria Memorial.heritage and culture at its peak

Beautiful place and maintained well. Can spend time around the park as well as reading about the history of Kolkata inside. Really informative.

Edited: The indoor setup has been changed and its only about Subhash Chandra Bose. Not that great. It should have been left as it was.

Its a historical palace - Where Queen Victoria use to live. Which is shown by the displayed item in the mesuem.

The Victoria memorial is good place to visit in kolkata. It is museum represent the life of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose

Well it's a very most popular place in the kolkata. Here, everything is properly maintained the lakes and grounds are so good, sitting arrangements are also too good. The inside look of place is wonderful and all the things are also beautifully maintained. A Must Visit This Place.

Most beautiful architecture to see in Kolkata…

It is a large marble building in Kolkata, which was built around the 1920s. It is dedicated to the memory of Queen Victoria and is now a museum. Like the Taj Mahal, the Victoria Memorial is built of white Makrana marble.one of the most favored tourist destination in Kolkata. A nice structural heritage is accompanied by a nice environment. There are 25 galleries spread across the two floors of the halls. Entry fees to the hall is Rs. 20 for Indian Citizens and Rs. 200 for foreigners.

The lawns spread up in 60+ acres, are used by locals, especially during winter, for family picnics and joyrides on horse-drawn carriages. The park is quite huge and a fun picnic spot. Multiple water bodies keep it a bit cooler but sweaty as well.now a day, lots of pre-wedding photo session happens here. A good place to plan a day out with family and friends

The Victoria Memorial has 25 galleries. [16] These include the royal gallery, the national leaders gallery, the portrait gallery, central hall, the sculpture gallery, the arms and armoury gallery and the newer, Calcutta gallery. The Victoria Memorial has the largest single collection of the works of Thomas Daniell (1749–1840) and his nephew, William Daniell (1769–1837). [17] It also has a collection of rare and antiquarian books such as the illustrated works of William Shakespeare, the Arabian Nights and the Rubaiyat by Omar Khayyam as well as books about kathak dance and thumri music by Nawab Wajid Ali Shah. However, the galleries and their exhibitions, the programmatic elements of the memorial do not compete with the purely architectural spaces or voids. [18][19]

Royal gallery Edit
The Royal Gallery displays a number of portraits of Victoria and Prince Albert, and paintings illustrating their lives, by Jansen and Winterhalter. The oil paintings are copies of those in London. They include: Victoria receiving the sacrament at her coronation in Westminster Abbey (June 1838) ; Victoria's marriage to Albert in the Chapel Royal at St James's Palace (1840) ; the christening of the Prince of Wales in Windsor Castle (1842) ; the marriage of Edward VII to Princess Alexandra (1863) ; Victoria at the First Jubilee service at Westminster Abbey (1887) and the Second Jubilee service at St. Paul's Cathedral (June 1897). Victoria's childhood rosewood pianoforte and her correspondence desk from Windsor Castle stand in the centre of the room. Edward VII presented these items to the Victoria Memorial. On the south wall hangs the Russian artist Vasily Vereshchagin's oil painting of the state entry of Edward VII in Jaipur in 1876.

It's such a very beautiful place. It is located in Kolkata. If you come to visit Kolkata, then you have to go here. It will take a long time to visit in a good way. But it is a great place to spend time. It can also be called lovers point.

One of the best museum in India. Wonderful architecture. Situated in a very convenient location. Easy to drive. Must visit in noon time so that you'll get enough time to enjoy this beautifully made museum.

Loved the place. Beautiful indeed. U can do photoshoot over there you will get great visuals too. Visually excellent place and so many things to learn from it too.

This Garden is awsom every where design by natural tree and grass. Best Place for spending time with public.

The Victoria Memorial is a large marble building in Kolkata. Demanded tourist place. You will be paused if you are first time to see it. Lovely view.

One of the historical places from the British time. Inside you will find some ancient artifacts, paintings and old ammunition but not that much interesting too. Photography is not allowed inside the memorial.
But the garden is large and really beautiful. One of the romantic places of Kolkata.

Let us, therefore, have a building, stately, spacious, monumental and grand, to which every newcomer in Calcutta will turn, to which all the resident population, European and Native, will flock, where all classes will learn the lessons of history, and see revived before their eyes the marvels of the past.

Very good collection of Bengal's heritage and cultural history. Entry fee is 30 (including the park visiting fee.) Gorgeous hall with gallery view. Well maintained paintings, documents, swords and guns reflecting the true essence of our culture. A must visit.

About Victoria Memorial

 Time Required:  2-3 hours

 Cost:  Garden: INR 10
Museum - Indians: INR 20Foreigners: INR 200
School children up to 12 years age in uniform and army personnel in uniform: Free

 Open Time:  Garden: 5: 30 AM to 6: 15 PM
Gallery: 10: 00 AM to 5: 00 PM every day, except Monday and national holidays.

Amazing place.
Just don't go on weekends or holidays its vary crowded.
And if you are a foreigner you pay 500 rupees to enter the building

One of the top best place to visit in Kolkata with your loved ones. One of the best structure build by British. Gallery is open till 5pm and Garden till 6.15pm.

Very good architecture, well kept museum, one should ask for free guide which is there for free at the entrance, a good knowledgeable gentleman

Its good
It even has a museum inside which has separate ticket
Outside it is a large garden where you can hangout with friends n family
Lighting at night is smoothing to the eyes

Another symbol of the British Era in India, It was built in memory of Queen Victoria to celebrate her 25 years of rule over India.

The site looks good and marvellous, especially at night, when it is illuminated.

Don't expect a lot more from this place.

One of the best place to visit in kolkata has a entry ticket of Rs 20 for the museum built during the time of queen Victoria.

It is one of the best historical place in Kolkata.flower garden should be best attraction after moyur kunj garden,

Nice place to chill.a dayout. Parents can take their children here. Get them a Chariot or horse riding. A must visit place for anyone who's visiting Kolkata for the first time. Ease of convinience to get here and go back. A chillax place. A place of calm in the city rushing. There's pond or lake in the vicinity as well, cool place splashing pebbels.: -p. A must must must visit.
Metro Rail connectivity.

This place took me back to the british era.the marble sculptures and busts were just awesome and the historical facts about the place.inside you will find many artifacts and information about the era.
And the marble building is treat to our eyes.it is beautiful

The Victoria Memorial is a large marble building in Kolkata, West Bengal, India, which was built between 1906 and 1921. It is dedicated to the memory of Queen Victoria and is now a museum and tourist destination under the auspices of the Ministry of Culture. At night, views are completely different and beautiful as it is lit up with colourful lights. My experience It is a great place and well maintained and It is good place to hang out with family and kids. I LIKED IT.

It's a good place to visit if you gonna visit Kolkata you must need to visit this Victoria memorial, you can visit with your family, friends, partner. Here you can see a very beautiful garden you if love photography or you like to take selfie click photos so it's really a very beautiful place. In the evening time it's looks just awesome what a lighting on the memorial building wow, I love this place cause I was visited here on my birthday (9th Oct 2k18) and that's an unforgettable moments which I have enjoyed there.

It's a nice place for history lovers.the museum is quite good.the garden is very beautiful.good place for friends who just wanna chill.and also for couples who wanna spend quality time

The Victoria Memorial is a large marble building in Kolkata,  West Bengal,  India, which was built between 1906 and 1921. It is dedicated to the memory of Queen Victoria (1819–1901) and is now a museum and tourist destination under the auspices of the Ministry of Culture. The memorial lies on the Maidan  (grounds) by the bank of the Hooghly River, near Jawaharlal Nehru Road  (better known as Chowringhee Road). Nice place to visit.pride of Kolkata

It's in city center of kolkatta.requires 40 min to see the place. Has a small museum attached to this.classic architecture with Roman, Islamic and Indian architecture elements. Landscape well developed.

"The best place in Kolkata to visit or to hang with your friends. The Victoria Memorial itself itself is a rare beauty. It's magnificent and more beautiful than any modern building available in whole Kolkata. "

Very Good and Peaceful place to visit.

The Victoria Memorial, a huge monument made of white marble located in the heart of the City of Joy, Kolkata (erstwhile Calcutta) in West Bengal, India is one of the most famous monuments in West Bengal that has become a museum and popular tourist spot of the state. A brainchild of George Curzon, 1st Marquess Curzon of Kedleston and Viceroy of India, this monument epitomising beauty and elegance was dedicated to the memory of Queen Victoria (1819–1901). This grand and exquisite memorial not only stands as reminiscence to the rule of British Crown in the Indian subcontinent but also stands out as an excellent architectural gem in Indo-Saracenic revivalist style. It is a must visit tourist destination for first time visitors to experience the essence of Victorian era in the midst of the bustling metro city of Kolkata.

When was it built:  Built between 1906 to 1921.

Who built it:  Conceptualised by George Curzon, Viceroy of India.

Why was it built:  To commemorate Queen Victoria.

Architectural Style:  Indo-Saracenic revivalist style.

Visiting Hours:  10am-5pm (Monday-Sunday)

One Should visit once.

The palace and the history of the queen Victoria's statue is excellently sculptured and the history originally depicted with the idols and photographs. Moreover the books hand written by them are alive here.