Fort St George is a historic fort in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. It was built in 1644 by the British East India Company and was the first British fort in India. Today, it is a popular tourist destination and a prominent landmark in Chennai.
The fort is spread over an area of 6.5 acres and is surrounded by a moat. It has several buildings, including the Fort Museum, St Mary's Church, the Clive House, and the Wellesley House. The fort was used as a centre of British administration in India until 1858, when the British government took control of India from the East India Company.
The Fort Museum is one of the major attractions of the fort. It houses a collection of artefacts and exhibits related to the British East India Company and the history of the defence. Some items on display include weapons, coins, uniforms, and paintings. The museum also has a section dedicated to the history of Chennai.
St Mary's Church is another popular attraction within the fort. It was built in 1680 and is the oldest Anglican church in India. The church has a beautiful interior with stained glass windows, wooden pews, and a chancel screen. It also has several memorials dedicated to British soldiers and officers who died in battle.
The Clive House and the Wellesley House were the residences of British officers during the colonial period. They are well-preserved and offer a glimpse into the lifestyle of British officers during that time. The Wellesley House now houses the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly.
The fort also has a beautiful garden and a parade ground. The park is popular for picnics and relaxation, while the parade ground is used for ceremonial events and military drills.
Located within a kilometre of Fort St George, the Government Museum is one of the oldest museums in India. It has an extensive collection of art, archaeology, anthropology, and zoology exhibits.
A popular pilgrimage site in Chennai, the Santhome Basilica is around 5 kilometres from Fort St George. The church is built over the tomb of St. Thomas, the apostle of Jesus Christ who came to India in the first century.
Another popular religious destination near Fort St George is the Kapaleeswarar Temple, around 5 kilometres away. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the oldest temples in Chennai.
Marina Beach is a popular tourist destination in Chennai, 4 kilometres from Fort St George. It is one of the longest urban beaches in the world, and visitors can enjoy a stroll or indulge in various beach activities.
St. Mary's Church:
One of the oldest Anglican churches in India, St. Mary's Church, is located within the Fort St George complex. It was built in the early 17th century and has a rich history.
Armenian Church:
Another historic church near Fort St George, built in the 18th century, is the Armenian Church. It has beautiful interiors and is an important Chennai cultural heritage landmark.
A famous Vaishnavite temple located around 6 kilometres from Fort St George, the Parthasarathy Temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is one of the oldest temples in Chennai.
Chennai Rail Museum:
Located around 8 kilometres from Fort St George, the Chennai Rail Museum is a must-visit for train enthusiasts. It has an impressive collection of vintage locomotives, coaches, and other exhibits related to railways.
A popular tourist destination in Chennai, Valluvar Kottam is a monument honouring the Tamil poet and philosopher Thiruvalluvar. It is located around 6 kilometres from Fort St George and has a large auditorium for cultural events.
Things To Do In Fort St George:
Explore the Museum:
Fort St. George houses a museum that displays various artefacts, including weaponry, coins, and rare documents. It's a great place to learn about the history of Chennai and the colonial era.
Visit St. Mary's Church:
Located inside Fort St. George, St. Mary's Church is the oldest Anglican church in India. It was built in 1680 and is a beautiful example of colonial architecture. Visitors can take a guided tour of the church and learn about its history.
Walk around the fort:
Fort St. George has a beautiful walkway with stunning sea views. Visitors can take a stroll around the fort and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Attend an event:
Fort St. George often hosts events, such as exhibitions and cultural programs. Visitors can check the schedule and attend an event during their visit.
Shop for souvenirs:
The fort has a gift shop that sells a variety of souvenirs, including postcards, books, and handicrafts. It's a great place to pick up a souvenir or gift for loved ones.
Enjoy the food:
Fort St. George has a restaurant that serves traditional South Indian cuisine. Visitors can enjoy a meal while taking in the beautiful surroundings.
Take a guided tour:
Fort St. George offers guided tours that take visitors through the fort's various buildings and historical sites. A tour guide can provide valuable insight into the history and significance of the defence.