After Miami, Mumbai features the world’s second-largest collection of Art Deco structures. In 2018, they were included in Mumbai’s Victorian Gothic and Art Deco Ensembles and were designated as UNESCO World Heritage sites. So, if you’re planning to explore Mumbai beyond its skyscrapers, book your Jaipur to Mumbai flight and get ready to unveil these diverse, striking architectural gems.
Table of Contents
1. Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus
With original concepts by Axel Haig, British engineer Frederick William Stevens developed the famous railway terminus in Mumbai, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus. With its pointed arches, turrets, and Indian palace-inspired layout, the station uniquely blends Victorian Italianate Gothic and Indian architectural elements.
The exterior is decorated with elaborate woodwork, tiles, and railings, some of which were made by Sir Jamsetjee Jeejebhoy School of Art pupils. This masterwork reflects a rich cultural past by skillfully fusing several elements.
2. Taj Palace and Tower Hotel
Founded in 1903, the world-famous Taj Palace Hotel in Mumbai is an unprecedented architectural masterpiece that effortlessly combines Moorish, Oriental, and Florentine elements. Its remarkable architecture features numerous towers, domes, chandeliers, and archways. The hotel’s notable collection of antiques and artwork contributes to its special ambience.
3. Municipal Corporation Building
Architecturally stunning, the Municipal Corporation Building in South Mumbai, Maharashtra, is a Grade IIA heritage building. With Venetian Gothic and Indo-Saracenic influences, the tower was finished in 1893 after Viceroy Lord Ripon laid the foundation stone in 1884.
Both the 71.5-meter central dome and the 255-foot tower are impressive features. The works include a thorough restoration that preserves its Minton tiles, wooden windows, stained glass, and sculptures with gargoyle and winged lion motifs.
4. Dhanraj Mahal
An example of an Art Deco structure is Dhanraj Mahal, which dates back to the early 1900s and was inspired by French design. Its past is fascinating.
Constructed in the 1930s, it was the erstwhile Hyderabadi Raja Dhanrajgir’s palace, formerly Mumbai’s most expensive and largest structure. It was taken over by the Ministry of Defense during World War II, but the royal family eventually received it back.
5. The Library Building, University of Mumbai
One of Mumbai’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites is the University of Mumbai’s Library, which is housed in one of the Victorian buildings close to Oval Maidan. It is a monument to the genius of Sir George Gilbert Scott, constructed between 1869 and 1878.
He was in London, but he managed the project, which included the famous Rajabai Clock Tower. The library is a prime example of lasting intellectual and architectural value; it opened on February 27, 1880.
6. Bombay High Court
From 1879, the Bombay High Court saw the first sitting of the assembly. The Court, a masterwork of Gothic architecture designed by British engineer Col. J.A. Fuller was reportedly based on a castle in Germany. A black stone construction surrounds its octagonal towers.
The sculptures of Justice and Mercy atop the structure serve as inspiration for preserving Indian law. You should go inside and watch a trial if you want genuine amusement. The action takes place mostly in rooms 19 and 20.
Conclusion
This concise guide lets you know the prominence of Mumbai’s Art Deco and other vintage architecture. To witness their all-mighty glory, book your Jaipur to Mumbai flights at the most affordable prices with Cleartrip today. Cleartripbrings you the best deals on these flights, taking you closer to the much-needed vacation to the ‘City of Dreams.’
