A historical monument is defined as a structure or a place of archaeological, historical or artistic interest that has been in existence for more than a century. Bangalore is certainly not short on historical monuments having being occupied during various periods of its history by Hindu, Mughal and English rulers whose influence is apparent in the many monuments aged hundred years and more that litter the city and add that ‘certain something’ to its character.
Some of the most distinguished and visible monuments of the city are buildings constructed between the 18th and early 20th century. One of these is Tipu Sultan’s 18th century Summer Palace built entirely in teak wood, an exquisite example of Indo – Islamic architecture with ornate features typical of the time. The rooms on the ground floor have been converted into a museum showcasing the achievements and contributions of Tipu Sultan.
Several buildings still in use today were constructed by the British during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Prominent among these is the former secretariat building, now the High Court of Karnataka, a Greco-Roman style structure constructed between 1864 and 1868. Painted a rich red colour many of its architectural details are superbly highlighted. Built in a similar vein in 1876 is the central building of the State Archaeological Museum, one of the oldest museums in India. It too is painted in a rich red colour. The other buildings of the museum replicated the original design and colour. The Greco – Roman style seems to have been infectious as the memorial to Sheshadri Iyer, Dewan of Mysore from 1883 to 1901 was built along similar lines but with the addition of a gabled roof. It too was painted in red. It was turned into a library in 1915. All of these buildings are located in historic Cubbon Park in the heart of the city which was created in 1870. Another surviving piece of colonial architecture is Mayo Hall a memorial for the fourth viceroy of India Lord Mayo. Started in 1873 and completed in 1883 it is an elaborate Italianate structure with many decorative architectural features. A matching building was put up in the premises in 1904. Another well known 19th century structure is Bangalore Palace said to be a replica of a well known English Gothic castle complete with ivy covered walls, turrets, arches and battlements. This bit of whimsy started out in 1862 as a school and was completed in 1944 by the Maharajah of Mysore whose family had purchased it in 1873. It remains very much a part of Bangalore’s social and cultural landscape.
Bangalore is also home to a whole host of historical religious monuments among which is St Patrick’s Church built in 1844. However the title of oldest church goes to St Mary’s Basilica which was built during Hyder Ali’s time, in the early 18th century. Historical Hindu temples include the 16th century Bull Temple in Basavangudi attributed to Kempe Gowda and the Gavi Gandhareshwara rock cut temple dedicated to Shiva, said to be a 9th century edifice. The Jumma Masjid, the oldest mosque in the city, distinguished by its tall granite pillars and distinctive architectural style was built at the same time as Tippu Sultan’s Summer Palace.
With the most convenient of locations, in the heart of the city’s business district, close to dining, entertainment and shopping destinations Citadines Richmond Bangalore offers one, two and three bedroom fully furnished and equipped contemporary apartments to suit individual requirements of business and leisure clients. Stay at these Bangalore service apartment accommodation and enjoy the facilities and amenities of this home away from home where comfort of guests is paramount. Have a hassle free stay in secure surroundings at these prominent serviced apartments Bangalore.
