Gateway of India
The Gateway of India was built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to India in 1911. However, the foundation stone was laid in March 1913, and the monument was completed in 1924. Designed by the Scottish architect George Wittet, the Gateway of India is an exquisite blend of Hindu and Muslim architectural styles, with elements drawn from the Gujarati style of architecture. The central dome, which is about 85 feet high, is its most striking feature, while the intricate latticework on the stone is a hallmark of Indian craftsmanship.
This imposing structure became the ceremonial entrance to India for viceroys and governors of Bombay (now Mumbai) during the British era. The Gateway of India also holds a poignant place in India’s history as it was from this very spot that the last British troops left India in 1948, symbolizing the end of British rule and the dawn of India’s independence.