Bangalore Palace - The Remnants of a
Bygone Era
Anyone who sees the Bangalore Palace is bound to fall in love with
it. Once youget over the initial shock of finding Tudor architecture
surrounded by Indian urban scenery, it's quite an intriguing place
worth exploring. It was built by Chamaraja Wodeyar, Maharaja of Mysore
in 1887. The Palace flaunts turreted parapets, battlements, fortified
towers and arches. At that time it costed about Rs One lakh to construct
it. The land cost Rs 10 lakh.
During a visit to England, Chamaraja Wodeyar was inspired by the
Windsor
Castle in London, and along similar lines he built this palace in
Tudor style. The palace was earlier surrounded by beautiful gardens
in the midst of a vast open rea, which have reduced considerably
today. Spread over an area of about 430 acres, the Palace is famous
for its elegantly carved woodwork. It is right in the heart of the
city. With a built-up area of around 45,000 sq. ft., this 120 year
old monument is a popular tourist attraction. It is surrounded by
a garden all around, almost giving it a fairytale setting.
The structure has fortified towers complete with Gothic windows,
battlements and turrets. This palace is largely constructed of wood,
and is famous for its carving and paintings. An exquisite door panel
at the entrance leads to grand settings inside.
Reverend Garret originally owned the land, on which the palace
stands today. Located between Jayamahal and Sadashivanagar areas,
the palace ground has become a venue for various exhibitions, concerts
and cultural programs. The palace is truly an architectural splendour.
The interiors have breathtaking floral motifs, cornices, mouldings
and relief paintings on its ceilings. However, entry to the palace
is restricted.
Location: In Palace Guttahalli.
North
India States
