Victoria Memorial : The splendid example of British architecture, this building in Kolkotta, West Bengal, was built in memory of Queen Victoria. The Prince of Wales, later known as King George V, laid the foundation stone on 4 January, 1906. It took 15 years before the Duke of Windsor officially inagurated it on 21 December 1921. Designed by Sir William Emerson, this 61 metre structure of white marble stands on 26 hectares of land. Inspired by the Taj Mahal, its splendid form combines British architecture and Moghul artistry.

The wrought iron gates , the lamp posts, the brass cannons and the statue of then Queen at the entrance - everything spells the magic of British monarchy and its grandeur. A bronze statue of an angel tops the domed memorial. The memorial today treasures many paintings, attires and other items used by he British during their rule in India. This building can also be termed as British Museum. Around 3500 items related to Queen Victoria are kept in 25 rooms of the memorial. In the evenings, the light and sound show is a major attraction for the tourists. The fountain of Joy on the
premises of the memorial presents an atmosphere of memorable charm. At the southern end of the maidan, this memorial was built with the contributions made by the public, even the poor contributed their mite. It was conceived by Lord Curzon. Dancing fountain is near by.