These Forgotten Heritage Homes In Bengaluru Are Now Open for Public Tours
Bengaluru is often called the 'Silicon Valley of India'. The city effortlessly mixes modernity and historical India. While the city's tech parks, the flourishing IT industry, and its cosmopolitan culture are famous, Bengaluru is a city that can be forgotten for its rich history. One of the many hidden gems are heritage homes that belonged to some of the major colonial officers, families, and leaders of the past. These homes, which were decayed over time, are now open for the public after restoration, letting them get a chance to understand the history of the city. Whether you're into history, art, architecture, or you are just a tourist, these heritage homes are worth your time.
Why Heritage Homes of Bengaluru Are So Special
Heritage homes located in Bangalore are more than unique buildings; these homes are like windows that tell the story and culture of the galaxy. These homes represent the amalgamation of the royal history and the blend of the cultures that gave birth to the city. Each of the heritage structures possess their own unique charm ranging from Indo-Saracenic structures to Victorian-style bungalows. Most of these houses were constructed in the 19th and 20th centuries when Bangalore was a key cantonment town during British rule. However, urbanization and ignorance over time led to the damages of these buildings. Fortunately, the neglect did not kill the structures, and with the help of the government, private organizing firms, and Heritage lovers these homes came back to life. This can help the visitors travel back in time.
1. The Bangalore Fort
The Bangalore Fort provides a glimpse into the history of the city, making it a notable heritage site. Kempe Gowda I. constructed the fort in the 16th century. It was later fortified by Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan before further modifications by the British. A museum was later established on the premises. Although the fort has managed to survive the constant test of time, the reside structures provide a peek into Bengaluru's military location. Even though the majority of the fort is a ruin, the remains, including the Delhi Gate, portray Bengaluru's architectural and militaristic past. 2 The Mayo Hall In order to commemorate Lord Mayo, the Viceroy of India, The Mayo Hall was constructed and is an admirable example signifying colonial architecture. This hall served as a venue for social events and administrative activities which shows that it was an important building in the city. Now, the hall is a government office but its sophisticated design allows everyday people to gaze upon it. The grandeur the hall serves is unparalleled. The exquisite details of the dome and the wide verandas and polished pillars details the work done in the colonial period.
2. The Venkatappa Art Gallery and Government Museum
The Venkatappa Art Gallery and Government Museum boasts a building that's truly remarkable on its own. It is a colonial construction with red brick walls and arched entrances. It is one of the best examples of colonial artistry in a building. The museum features a large collection of artifacts such as coins, sculptures, and paintings from ancient periods while the art gallery boasts K. Venkatappa's works, the highly regarded artist from the state. Anyone interested in the history of Bengaluru will find this heritage site very appealing.
3. The Bangalore Palace
Bengaluru has many kings and queens' designed and built structures. One of the most famous ones is Bangalore Palace. Bangalore Palace is one of the most famous examples of historical architecture in the city. The palace was ordered to be built long ago and we can truly understand why the blueprints resembled Windsor Castle. First built by the Rev J Garrett, the headmaster of Central High School, it was later purchased by the Wadiyar Dynasty of Mysore. Vintage furniture mixed with stained glass and exquisitely carved wood gives the interior furnishings a royal touch. The expansive gardens surrounding the Palace are available to the public and serve as venues for cultural gatherings and concerts.
4. The Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace
This summer palace of Tipu Sultan is crafted solely from teak and now has the doors opened for tourists. It is situated next to the Bangalore Fort. This majestic place is one of the finest examples of Indo-Islamic style architecture. In today's world, this palace serves as a museum that exhibits artifacts relevant to the life of Tipu Sultan. As the rhyme of a celebrated historical figure unfolds, viewers are treated with intricate carvings, floral motifs, and beauty beyond words. The palace has been restored for the modern inhabitants of the land to share in its glory.
5. The Attara Kacheri (High Court)
Just as famed as the Karnataka High Court, The Attara Kacheri is composed of red bricks. This building is a commemoration for the colonial history of Bengaluru. With lavish gardens cast aside for public usage, the royal head of the building is still functional and cloaked in archaic neoclassical design, gripping its Corinthian columns, vaulted windows, and regal dome. There is no doubt that the statue head of Kacheri beautifies the history of Bengaluru's ruler alongside the border of grandeur and beauty.
Maintaining the Heritage of Bengaluru
The reopening of these heritage homes and buildings is a step forward in maintaining the cultural and historical legacy of Bengaluru. These structures serve a dual purpose of being tourist spots and helping people understand the city's history. The efforts to protect and develop these heritage sites are most certainly important for the preservation of the unique identity of the city of Bengaluru for the future years to come.
Final Thoughts
The lost heritage buildings of Bengaluru are more than architectural attractions. Civilization is a thread, and such structures are stitches that keep the city or region's life intact. The uniqueness of Bengaluru comes to the limelight as these homes focus on ever welcoming the tourists. If they open their doors, a studious analysis of the culture and artistry spotlighted in these homes and the historical context behind it will emerge. It does not matter if you are new to the world of history, an architecture admirer, or just a tourist; these places should be visited if deeper comprehension of this heritage laden city is desired. So next time, if you are visiting Bengaluru, instead of the tech parks and malls, visit these splendid heritage homes and walk into the pages of history.
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