Situated in Chennai, St. George Fort has the unique distinction of being the first British-built stronghold in India. Erected in 1639, it was often known as the White Town in times past. The fortress’ construction paved the way for more settlements, eventually giving rise to trading activities in an area that was initially deserted.
Thus, Chennai city’s evolution was fundamentally linked to this fort. Today, the impressive St. George Fort serves as the venue for the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly and hosts several other official establishments.
St. George Fort’s History:
Curious about the history of St. George Fort? The East India Company (EIC), seeking to expand its trading pursuits, arrived in India during the 1600s. Initially, they established their base in Surat. Yet, to protect their business interests and ensure the safety of their trade routes, the EIC sought a port closer to the Malaccan Straits. Consequently, they bought a coastal plot called Channapatnam or Chennirayarpattinam and commenced the fort and harbour’s construction.
The fortress was completed on April 23, 1644, at an approximate cost of GBP 3,000. The completion coincided with St. George’s Day, celebrated in honour of England’s patron saint, hence the fort’s name. With its strategic location facing the sea and some fishing villages, it quickly became a bustling trading hub.
St. George Fort’s importance grew such that a new settlement, George Town, began to form around it. This settlement expanded, enveloping nearby fishing villages and eventually evolving into the city known as Madras, now Chennai.
Thomas Bowrey, a 17th-century traveller, described St. George Fort as a place of exceptional grandeur.
Standing tall with 6-meter (around 20 feet) high walls, St. George Fort withstood several attacks in the 18th century. From 1746 to 1749, the French temporarily controlled it, but it was returned to the British by the Treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle, which ended the War of the Austrian Succession.
Now, St. George Fort serves as one of the administrative centers for Tamil Nadu’s legislative assembly. It continues to accommodate a military garrison in transit to various South Indian locations and the Andaman Islands.
What Can You Find Inside St. George Fort?
The fort complex contains a church, a museum, and the Wellesley House.
Can we visit the fort’s church?
Absolutely, St. Mary’s Church, within the fort’s confines, is reputed to be India’s oldest Anglican Church. Constructed between 1678 and 1680 under the orders of Streynsham Master, the Agent of Madras, the church also houses a small cemetery. Its tombstones are considered the oldest British or English tombstones in India. The church’s prayer house has seen the weddings of Governor Elihu Yale and Robert Clive. Notably, Governor Yale later became Yale University’s first benefactor in the U.S.
Tourist Information for St. George Fort
Is the Fort Museum open to the public?
Yes, the Fort Museum inside St. George Fort welcomes visitors and is managed by the Archaeological Survey of India. It’s the only location within the fort that requires a ticket for entry. Numerous exhibits here trace back to the British rule period. The museum, completed in 1795 after the church was built, initially served as the Madras Bank’s office. Its upper part functioned as the Public Exchange Hall, hosting public meetings, lottery draws, and entertainment events.
Displayed in the museum are relics from the colonial era, including weapons, coins, uniforms, and other artifacts from India, France, England, and Scotland. Original letters penned by Cornwallis and Robert Clive, period uniforms, and portraits of various Madras governors can also be found. The imposing statue of Lord Cornwallis is one of the museum’s key attractions.
Where is the Wellesley House situated?
It’s found within St. George Fort, housed on the first floor of a separate building that also encompasses the Banquet Hall. The Banqueting Hall exhibits numerous paintings of the fort’s governors and other senior British officials.
What can you see in the Wellesley House?
Apart from paintings, Tipu Sultan’s canons, and the Mughal ruler, are the main attractions. These canons are displayed on the museum’s ramparts. There’s also a 14.5 feet statue of Tipu Sultan at the Wellesley House entrance, crafted by Charles Bank in England and transported to India. The statue’s pedestal is intricately carved, depicting a scene where Tipu Sultan’s messenger presents Tipu’s two sons to the British as hostages in lieu of an unpaid ransom.
One more unique feature at St. George Fort is the flagstaff, one of India’s tallest, made of teakwood, and measuring an imposing 150 feet.
Where is St. George Fort Located?
St. George Fort, an iconic landmark of Chennai, is situated on Rajaji Salai Road. Today, it is maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), with the Indian Army providing administrative support.
How long should my visit to St. George’s Fort take?
You would need about an hour to explore the fort and visit the museum and church. So, plan your visit accordingly to fully immerse yourself in the fort’s rich history.
St. George Fort Timings
When is St. George Fort open? It is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day, except on Fridays.
St. George Fort Entry Is there an entrance fee at St. George Fort? Yes, Indian citizens are charged Rs. 5, and foreigners Rs. 100. If you wish to visit the Fort Museum, you’ll need to purchase a separate ticket.
Nearby Attractions Around St. George Fort:
- Marina Beach: A short distance from St. George Fort is Marina Beach, one of the world’s longest urban beaches. It’s a perfect spot for an evening stroll, offering mesmerizing sunset views. Street food stalls lining the promenade provide local delicacies for an authentic Chennai experience.
- Chennai Lighthouse: Located on Marina Beach, the Chennai Lighthouse offers panoramic views of the city and the Bay of Bengal. It’s a remarkable spot for photography enthusiasts.
- Government Museum Chennai: This multi-disciplinary museum is one of the oldest in India, housing rich collections across archaeology, numismatics, zoology, natural history, sculptures, palm-leaf manuscripts, and Amravati paintings.
- Kapaleeshwarar Temple: A 20-minute drive from the fort will take you to this historic Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple, known for its Dravidian architecture, is an integral part of the cultural and religious life of Chennai.
- Santhome Cathedral: This Roman Catholic minor basilica, built in the 16th century by Portuguese explorers, is said to house the remains of St. Thomas the Apostle. It’s a serene place of worship, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.
These attractions, along with the historic St. George Fort, create a diverse and enriching itinerary for visitors, offering a glimpse into the history, culture, and natural beauty of Chennai.
Follow-up Articles:
- Top 10 Places to See Near Chennai Within 200 km
- 15 Famous Must-Do Activities in Chennai
- Chennai’s 12 Most Popular Museums
- Top 10 Places to Visit Near Chennai Within 100 Km
- 7 Famous Historical Places in Chennai
- Chennai’s Top 10 Most Famous Temples
- Top 20 Famous Places to See in Chennai
- 10 Famous Historical Sites in Tamil Nadu
