subject: Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus An Impressive Blend Of Oriental And Occidental Architectural Styles [print this page] Mumbai, the capital of Maharashtra State in India, is one of the most populated cities in the world. Sprawling along the western coast of the Indian peninsula Mumbai is considered as one of the richest cities in India while serving as its financial and commercial capital. This affluent city is also rich in historical attractions varying from centuries old cave temples to formidable forts and striking clock towers to massive gateways.
Mumbai is also home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites which includes one of the busiest railway stations in India known as Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus. This station is the headquarters of Central Railways, one of the biggest Indian railway zones that ran the first passenger railway line in India. In the olden days it was known as the Victoria Terminus.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus was designed by the English architect Frederick William Stevens conforming to the Victorian Gothic Revival Style. If you closely observe this edifice you would notice elements of traditional Indian architecture smoothly blended in with Italianate Gothic style. It was built over a decade spanning from 1878 to 1888, where British architects collaborated with Indian artisans to make one inspiration a reality.
In 2004 Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in recognition of its outstanding design. This truly breathtaking railway station has stunning stone domes, pointed arches and ornate turrets over and above an unconventional ground plan. Some of these elements have been imbued with traditional palatial architecture. The interior of the terminus is embellished with ornate brass and iron railings, tiles, balustrades flanking the stairways, wood carvings and grills of the ticket offices. These have been designed by the students of Bombay School of Art.
Dont forget to drop by this impressive landmark in Mumbai, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus during your vacation in Mumbai. Choose one of the premier luxury hotels Mumbai such as The Leela Kempinski Mumbai if you are looking for a relaxing and pampered stay. This exclusive hotel is surrounded in acres of charming landscaped gardens brimming in greenery while dotted with cascades and fountains. Resting only five minutes away from the Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, this is one of the best Mumbai hotels that give you quick access to business and IT districts in Mumbai.
