Saint Pauls Cathedral Kolkata

Kolkata is the gateway to Eastern India, a city with a rich heritage, bustling streets and an amazing multiplicity of aspects. The nerve centre of culture in India, and famed internationally as the ‘city of joy’, Kolkata is indeed a happening city, with a bewildering range of choices to choose from. And, these days, Kolkata is a booming tourist destination, with people from all over the world being attracted to the mysticism and exotic ambience of this 300-year old city. Boasting of a unique culture and heritage, Kolkata draws many international tourists. There are many places worth visiting while in Kolkata, one of them being the Saint Paul’s Cathedral, Kolkata.

The Saint Paul’s Cathedral, Kolkata, the “first Episcopal Church of the Orient”, was designed by Major William Nairn Forbes, with the assistance of C.K. Robinson. The foundation of the Cathedral was laid in 1839 with the support of Bishop Wilson, and construction was completed in 1847. The tower and spire of the Saint Paul’s Cathedral, Kolkata, were built on the lines of the Norwich Cathedral, however, following the earthquake of 1934, the tower was rebuilt on the lines of Bell Harry at Canterbury.

The Saint Paul’s Cathedral, Kolkata, is constructed in an Indo-Gothic architectural style. The church is 247 ft. in length and 81 ft. in width and the tower is 201 ft. high, and is set amidst huge grounds with several ancient trees. The main hall is large, with skillfully carved wooden pews and chairs, the intricate colored artwork covering the eastern walls, two marvelous Florentine frescoes, and stained glass windows in the West. Inside the Saint Paul’s Cathedral, Kolkata are exquisite mural paintings that vividly describe the life and works of St. Paul.

The Saint Paul’s Cathedral, Kolkata, is open to visitors from 9:00 am to 12:00 Noon, and from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Sunday services are held at 7:30 am, 8:30 am, and 6:00 pm. Christmas sees the Saint Paul’s Cathedral, Kolkata decked up in all its glory, and people of all castes and classes come here to witness the midnight mass and service held on the 24th of December every year.